In the wake of widespread allegations of irregularities against Essential Drugs Company Ltd (EDCL), a state-owned pharmaceutical enterprise, Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum on Monday said that the company must be overhauled to ensure its effective operation.
The Health Adviser made the remarks during a views-exchange meeting with EDCL staff at its Tejgaon office.
“As you know, 39 students and citizens have lost their eyesight during recent movements and will never see the world again. Parents will never see their children, and the injured will never see their loved ones. What was the purpose of their immense sacrifice? It was to bring changes to this country. Our nation’s new journey has been paved with the sacrifices of countless martyrs and the injured,” said the adviser.
Issuing a stern warning, Nurjahan said, “No injustice or irregularity will be tolerated in the future. We must move forward by letting go of the past. But if anyone is found guilty of serious misconduct or irregularities, they will face necessary actions following a thorough investigation.”
Referring to the system loss issue, the adviser said, “Reducing or eliminating these losses will not only improve your efficiency but also enhance the institution’s reputation.”
Mentioning that a number of reports were published about the irregularities of EDCL, the adviser urged officials to reform the organisation in honour of those who have made sacrifices for the nation. “Let us work together to transform this institution, ensuring it becomes free from criticism. EDCL must be revamped.”
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Dr Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant Professor at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, emphasised the importance of enhancing EDCL’s efficiency to remain competitive in the market.
“For example, Dhaka Medical College Hospital saved Tk 22 crore by purchasing medicines from alternative sources instead of EDCL... why would they pay higher prices to EDCL when equally effective medicines are available in the market at lower prices? While maintaining quality is vital, improving efficiency is equally critical,” he said.
Dr Sayedur also urged EDCL officials to optimise their processes and take advantage of the company’s five government-supported manufacturing plants.
He stressed the government’s commitment to universal healthcare, with medicine coverage as a key component of this initiative.
“Currently, 67-70% of healthcare expenses are borne out-of-pocket by people, mainly for medicines. If EDCL consistently produces quality medicines and ensures reliable supply, it can revolutionise the pharmaceutical sector and bolster the public health system,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of transparency and automation, Dr Sayedur said, “All operations must be transparent, electronic, and time-bound. A robust and transparent system, along with a comprehensive database, is essential, as these are standard global practices. EDCL’s mission is to provide affordable, high-quality medicines, contributing to GDP while meeting market standards. This is your moral responsibility, as the general public is your ultimate consumer.”
Following the discussion, Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum visited the Central Medical Stores Depot (CMSD) to inspect its operations.