Restricted Drug License (Form 20A & 21A) in Pune: General Stores, Remote Areas & OTC Medicine Sales

Understanding Restricted Drug Licenses (Form 20A & 21A) in Maharashtra

Not every establishment retailing basic medical products requires a full-fledged registered pharmacist. In remote rural hamlets, highway retail stops, village general stores, and large corporate manufacturing complexes in Pune district where access to regular pharmacies is limited, the Drugs Rules provide for a Restricted Drug License issued on Form 20A and Form 21A.

A restricted license permits the retail sale of basic household and Over-The-Counter (OTC) medicines that do not require prescription monitoring, such as paracetamol, antacids, ORS packets, bandages, and topical pain balms. The licensee is exempted from the mandatory requirement of appointing a registered pharmacist, provided medicines are purchased from licensed wholesale distributors. KOKJAGUAR Consultancy assists general retail chains and rural outlets in securing restricted licenses. Explore our drug licensing solutions.

Conditions for Restricted License Grant

• Applicant must operate a genuine commercial retail establishment or general store.
• Prohibited from stocking Schedule H, H1, or X prescription-only drugs.
• Must purchase medicines strictly from licensed wholesalers with proper tax invoices.
• Must maintain cool, clean, and dry storage conditions away from direct sunlight.