India Proposes Ban on Two Antimicrobial Groups for Animal Use

New Delhi, September 17, 2026: India’s Union Health Ministry has issued a draft notification proposing prohibition of carboxypenicillins and phosphonic acid derivatives and their formulations for animal use.

The proposal covers the manufacture, import, sale and distribution of the specified antimicrobial products for animal use. The Ministry has cited potential risk to humans and the availability of safer alternatives.

The proposal follows India’s broader tightening of antimicrobial-use controls. In February 2026, the Drugs Technical Advisory Board had recommended prohibition of these antimicrobial groups for animal use.

Importantly, the September notification is a draft proposal, not a final prohibition. The government has provided an opportunity for objections and suggestions before final action.

Industry significance

If implemented, the measure could affect veterinary pharmaceutical portfolios, antimicrobial stewardship strategies and treatment protocols involving these drug classes. It also reinforces India’s broader movement toward tighter controls on antimicrobial use in food-producing animals and AMR risk management.