Health Activists Advocate for Revision of Indias Essential Medicines List to Enhance Price Controls and Accessibility

The Working Group on Access to Medicines and Treatments has reported that the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) was last updated in 2022, comprising a total of 384 medicines. In contrast, the World Health Organization (WHO) Model List of Essential Medicines has undergone revisions, with the latest updates occurring in both 2023 and 2025, bringing the total number of medicines included in the WHO list to 523.

The importance of regular updates to essential medicine lists is paramount in ensuring that they reflect the latest scientific evidence and public health needs. The WHO Model List serves as a guideline for countries to develop their own essential medicines lists, which are critical for healthcare planning and ensuring the availability of key medications for various health conditions. The increase in the number of medicines on the WHO list highlights the evolving landscape of healthcare, including advancements in medical treatments and responses to emerging health challenges. This discrepancy between the NLEM and the WHO list may indicate a need for more frequent evaluations to align national standards with global health recommendations.