Govt raises ceiling prices of BCG, Measles vaccines by 21%

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NEW DELHI: The Centre has raised the ceiling prices of BCG, Measles and Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccines by about 21% after reconsidering an earlier pricing order following a review application by Serum Institute of India . In a gazette notification, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) increased the ceiling price of BCG vaccine from ₹8.20 to ₹9.89 per dose, Measles vaccine from Rs 51.40 to Rs 62 per vial and Measles-Rubella vaccine from ₹72.90 to ₹87.93 per vial. The revision stems from a December 2024 NPPA order that had fixed vaccine prices after applying a 17.1% reduction linked to monopoly status under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013.

Serum Institute subsequently sought a review, arguing that vaccines differ from conventional medicines in manufacturing processes, technology, therapeutic use and market dynamics. Examining the matter, the Department of Pharmaceuticals observed that the vaccines were of critical public health significance, had shown relatively stable price trends and imposed only a minimal financial burden on citizens.

It also noted that the products were being supplied by a single manufacturer at comparatively low prices. NPPA subsequently revised the ceiling prices under Paragraph 19 of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 without applying the monopoly reduction, saying the move would address the manufacturer's grievance and ensure sufficient availability of the vaccines in the market.