The Indian government has mandated new drug manufacturing standards this year for the country's pharmaceutical companies, media reports said.

However, smaller firms are requesting a delay due to their existing financial burdens, as per a government notification as quoted by PTC News.

The Indian government tightened scrutiny after several deaths were reported overseas which were allegedly associated with drugs manufactured in India since 2022.

Aimed at revitalising the reputation of Indian pharmaceutical companies, the government's notification says as quoted by PTC News that "manufacturers must ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of pharmaceutical products, assuming full responsibility for their suitability and compliance".

As per the notification, companies are required to conduct tests on ingredients and maintain adequate samples of intermediate and final products before marketing the finished product.

According to reports, the government has set a six-month deadline for major drug makers to address the concerns. Smaller firms have been given a year time to take the measures.