Price Monitoring and Resource Unit (PMRU)

Why in news?

• Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory has become 12th State where the Price Monitoring & Resource Unit (PMRU) has been set up by National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA)
• PMRUs is already set up by NPPA in 11 States including - Kerala, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Nagaland, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Mizoram.

About PMRU

• It is a registered society which function under the direct control and supervision of State Drug Controller of respective states. 
• The PMRU helps NPPA and State Drug Controller in ensuring availability and accessibility of medicines at affordable prices.
• It is also expected to organise seminars, training programs and other information, education and communication (IEC) activities in the areas of availability and affordability of medicines for all. 
• PMRU will also collect samples of medicines, collect and analyse data and make reports with respect to availability and over-pricing of medicines for taking action under the provisions of Drug Price Control Order (DPCO).
• The unit shall be funded by NPPA for its recurring and non-recurring expenses. 

Prelims Question

Q.Consider the following statements regarding Price Monitoring and Resource Unit (PMRU)

1. It is a registered society which function under the direct control and supervision of National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA).

2.It organises training programs and other information, education and communication (IEC) activities in the areas of availability and affordability of medicines.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

a.1 only

b.2 only

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to the Prelims Question