It will give consumers information on essential medicines and their prices, and also help them locate a cheaper generic version if an expensive, branded version has been prescribed. The helpline will be run by a consumer organization,VOICE,and initially funded by the government. A toll-free number, which can be accessed from anywhere in the country, is likely to be introduced soon.

Helpline will prevent overpricing of drugs
A helpline to be launched by consumer organization, VOICE, and initially funded by the government is likely to be introduced soon. The helpline will also tell you prices of scheduled drugs, which are under government control.

In another move to benefit the "aam admi", the government has decided to promote sale of non-branded generic drugs (cheaper versions of branded medicines) by setting up drug stores in each district. These stores -- to be run by non-governmental organizations and agencies like Red Cross -- will sell drugs at reduced prices. Doctors at government hospitals will be asked to prescribe generic drugs.