Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is set to launch its first-ever initiative for the collection and scientific disposal of expired medicines. The project, titled ‘nPROUD’ (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs), will be inaugurated by Health Minister Veena George on February 22.
The primary objective of the project is to systematically collect unused and expired medicines from households and medical stores and ensure their environmentally safe disposal. This initiative, led by the Health Department, aims to prevent pharmaceutical waste from contaminating the environment and promote responsible medication disposal.
Special collection bins will be installed at hospitals and pharmacies across the state, allowing people to deposit expired or unused medicines. The collected medicines will be processed and disposed of using scientific methods to minimize environmental impact.
As a pioneering effort in India, ‘nPROUD’ is expected to serve as a model for other states to follow in tackling pharmaceutical waste management effectively.
