Mysore/Mysuru: An international workshop on ‘Generic Drugs: Science, Technology, Regulatory Issues and Societal Dimensions in the Developing World,’ organised by JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), in collaboration with the Indian Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, witnessed an engaging panel discussion on Generics and Global Health: Ethics, Access and Societal Impact at JSS Medical College  in city recently.

The two-day event commenced with inaugural addresses by JSS AHER Dean (Academics)                          Dr. Vishal Gupta, Vice-Chancellor Dr. H. Basavanagowdappa, Pro-Chancellor Dr. B. Suresh Bhojraj, Director General of NAM S&T Centre in New Delhi Dr. Amitava Bandopadhyay and Vice-President & Group Head Regulatory Affairs at Mumbai Dr. Bobby George.

JSS Mahavidyapeetha Executive Secretary Dr. C.G. Betsurmath delivered the Presidential address. JSS College of Pharmacy Principal Dr. T.M. Pramod Kumar proposed a vote of thanks.

A major highlight of the event was the panel discussion moderated by Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice Dr. Shilpa Palaksha. The panel featured experts including Dr. M.D. Karvekar, Dr. A. Babu Thandapani, Dr. K.M. Srinath, Amanulla Khan and Dr. B.A. Viswanath.

The session focused on the importance of affordable generic medicines, ethical prescribing practices, regulatory strengthening and societal trust in generics.

Speakers emphasised that improving public awareness, ensuring quality assurance and building stronger collaborations among regulators, healthcare professionals and pharmacists are essential to expanding access to cost-effective medicines globally.

The workshop also featured lectures by Prof. Shital Mahindra Mohanlal Mar from Kenya on pharmaceutical industry development through South-South collaboration.

The event concluded successfully, reinforcing Mysuru’s role as a growing centre for global pharmaceutical dialogue and policy discussions on equitable healthcare access.