NPPA has issued notification on pro -rata pricing on 27.01.98. According to this notification, the manufacturers of all the scheduled formulation pack sizes different from the notified pack sizes under sub- paragraphs (1) and (2) of the paragraph 9 of the DPCO, 1995, shall have to work out the price for such pack sizes, in respect of tablets and capsules of the same strength or composition packed in different strips or blisters, on pro-rata basis of the latest ceiling price fixed for such formulations under sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) of para 9 of the DPCO, 1995. This was done to ensure that :-
- manufacturers are not forced to approach frequently for price approvals for different pack sizes and
- the manufacturers do not change the pack sizes in a bid to remain out of price control.
Every formulation of a bulk drug included under schedule 1 of DPCO, irrespective of pack size, strength, dosage form must be marketed only at price fixed by Government, with adjustment for pro-rata price wherever required. However, the manufacturers in the Small Scale Industry (SSI) category may avail exemption from seeking price fixation from NPPA in respect of Scheduled Formulations not covered under ceiling prices provided they have submitted a declaration to NPPA as per S.O.No.134(E) dated 2nd March, 1995 and obtained approval for the same from NPPA.