In order to ensure self-sufficiency in drugs manufacturing and availability of essential medicines at affordable prices, the Jammu and Kashmir government will encourage local manufacturers of pharmaceuticals.

"In order to promote self-sufficiency, the state government will encourage local manufacturers of pharmaceuticals in line with the State Industrial Policy," State Health Minister Sham Lal Sharma said on Wednesday.

To ensure safety, quality and efficacy of products, the regulatory agency will regulate manufacture of medicinal products and undertake periodic inspection of the manufacturing premises within the state, he said.

The new drug policy, which came into operation early this month, aimed at making essential medicines affordable and accessible to all and ensuring safety, quality and efficacy of medicines, among others.

Controller, Drugs and Food Control Organisation in the state is responsible for implementing the legislation and regulations on pharmaceuticals.

The government will also promote rational use of drugs in the state so that patients receive medicines appropriate for their clinical needs, in doses that meet the individual requirements for an adequate period of time and at the lowest cost.

Under the new policy, a state-level Drugs and Therapeutic Advisory Committee will also be constituted to monitor the activities of the Drugs and Therapeutic Committees in the hospitals.

A state-level formulary would be published annually in line with the World Health Organisation and national norms and given to all qualified prescribers.