January 30: The Deurali-Janata Pharmaceuticals (DJPL) has said that the company is to move ahead by producing medicines for neurological and psychiatric problems besides other vital medicines.

On the occasion of its 26 ^th anniversary, the company informed that DJPL will be fulfilling the aim by utilizing 30 percent of its reserve production capacity. 

Established in 1988, the company started its production from 1991. Currently, DJPL is only utilizing its 70 percent of the total capacity, and producing around 300 types of medicines. The produced medicines are in the form of liquid, tablets, capsules, dry powder and ointment.

Certified with good manufacturing practice (GMP) by the World Health Organization (WHO), Deurali-Janata has also received international organization standardization certificates - ISO 14001 and 9001. Located at Dhapasi in Kathmandu, the company is providing employment to more than 400 people. Till date, more than Rs 1.20 billion has been invested in the industry. 

President of the Nepali Congress and chief guest of the programme, Sher Bahadur Deuba felicitated the staffs who had served from 20 to 25 years in the company with the long-term service awards. Similarly, Durga Upadhyay, Chairman of DJPL awarded service medals to the staffs who had completed 10 to 15 years of service in the company.

Speaking at the programme, Deuba said that it was the responsibility of the state to encourage domestic industries. “Although the pharma industries are fulfilling the domestic demands, mass production is necessary for export,” he pointed out.

He added that foreign companies have a mass production and can sell it at affordable prices. “Due to low production, we have problems in export and that we also need to make our products qualitative.”

Hari Bhakta Sharma, Director of DJPL opined that if the government provides favorable environment, Nepali pharma industry can expand its reach to the international market as well. He also drew the attention of the concerned bodies to help end the import of foreign medicines and to make industry-friendly policy.

Likewise, Director General of the Department of Drug Administration (DDA) Narayan Prasad Dhakal said that the Department was always positive for the development and expansion of Nepali pharma industry.

“A committee has been formed on the direction of the health minister for export promotion of Nepali pharmaceutical products,” he informed.