Medicines play a very important role in saving human lives and treating diseases. However, medicines are not ordinary goods like groceries or household items. If medicines are used without proper medical advice or are sold carelessly, they can harm people and even lead to serious health problems. In recent years, the problem of self-medication and misuse of certain medicines has been increasing. Therefore, it is important for the public to understand how medicines are legally sold and what responsibilities medical shop owners and consumers must follow.

Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, no person is allowed to sell medicines without obtaining a Retail Drug License from the Licensing Authority. This rule ensures that medicines are sold only through authorized medical shops and under the supervision of qualified professionals. In Jammu & Kashmir, drug licenses are issued by the Drugs & Food Control Organization (DFCO) under the Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration. At present, the process of applying for a drug license has become easier because it is conducted through the Online National Drugs Licensing System (ONDLS). The applicant can submit the application and upload documents online.

One important feature of this system is that the applicant is normally not required to visit the office of the Licensing Authority or the Drug Control Office. The entire process is handled online, and physical documents generally do not need to be submitted. This system has made the process more transparent and convenient for applicants. As per Rule 59 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, a person who wants to open........

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