The History of Indian pharmacy profession in India can be broadly divided into four phases: ancient history, the colonial period, the post-independence period, and the modern era.
1) Ancient history:
Pharmacy in India has roots in traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani.
Ancient texts like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and the Atharva Veda contain detailed information on medicinal plants, their properties, and methods of preparation.
Healers like Vaidyas, Hakims, and Siddhars were responsible for preparing and dispensing medicines.
2) Colonial period:
The British rule in India led to the introduction of allopathic medicine and the establishment of several medical colleges and institutions.
The first pharmacy course was introduced in 1863 at Calcutta Medical College.
3) Post-independence period:
After 1947, the Pharmacy Act of 1948 established the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) to regulate pharmacy education and the profession.
The first Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) course was introduced in 1953 at the University Department of Chemical Technology, Mumbai.
The Indian government promoted pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, and the 1970 Indian Patent Act allowed the production of generic drugs, boosting the pharmaceutical industry.
4) Modern era:
Economic liberalization in the 1990s increased foreign investments and collaborations, making India a global leader in generic drug production.
India is now a major exporter of affordable medicines.
Pharmacy education has expanded with programs like D.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Pharm.D.
Organizations like PCI, IPA, AICTE, and NIPER play key roles in shaping the pharmacy profession in India.