PCI cancels recognition of 89 pharmacy colleges in Maharashtra for violating norms

The PCI has indicated that inspections are continuing across other states as well, and similar action will follow wherever deficiencies are found.

The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has cancelled recognition for as many as 89 pharmacy colleges in Maharashtra for violating various norms. On this 22 colleges are from Nagpur alone found guilty after inspections revealed serious violations of norms.

The colleges were found lacking in essential facilities such as laboratories, libraries, and qualified faculty. The PCI said these institutions cannot admit students to the first year of their pharmacy courses for 2025-26, as reported by ToI.

“Colleges that fail to maintain minimum standards cannot be allowed to admit fresh batches. This step is necessary to protect the quality of pharmacy education,” a PCI official told TOI.

Students already studying in these institutions will not be directly affected this year, but the colleges must fix the deficiencies if they want their recognition restored. The council has also directed state authorities to monitor compliance closely and submit updates.

Maharashtra, with over 400 pharmacy colleges, is one of India’s largest hubs for pharmaceutical education. Experts said the cancellation of recognition for 89 colleges is among the biggest such actions in recent years.

While student groups expressed concern about the shortage of seats, many educationists welcomed the move, saying it would curb the proliferation of substandard institutions. “Students deserve proper labs and trained teachers. Denying recognition to colleges that don’t meet norms is the right step,” said a Nagpur-based activist.

The PCI has indicated that inspections are continuing across other states as well, and similar action will follow wherever deficiencies are found.