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The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said it is fully prepared to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential medicines during the nationwide one-day strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) on May 20, 2026.

The strike has been announced by wholesale and retail medicine traders across the country in support of their pending demands.

According to the FDA, all necessary arrangements are being made to ensure that citizens continue to receive medicines without disruption during the bandh.

V T Jadhav, Joint Commissioner (Drugs), FDA Maharashtra headquarters, said the administration has coordinated with chemists, hospital-linked pharmacies and 24-hour medical stores across the state.

Instructions have also been issued to maintain adequate stock of essential medicines.

Coordination with district authorities

Under the directions of FDA Commissioner, district-level coordination has been strengthened with collectors, police departments, district surgeons, health officers, the Indian Medical Association, private hospitals and semi-government healthcare institutions.

Officials said efforts are being made to ensure that essential medicine shops remain operational at village and taluka levels.

Public asked not to believe rumours

The administration has appealed to citizens not to panic or believe rumours regarding medicine shortages.

The FDA stated that emergency support systems have been activated across Maharashtra to handle any urgent requirement related to medicines during the strike.

Control rooms have been established at district FDA offices to assist citizens facing difficulties in obtaining medicines.

In emergency situations, the Maharashtra FDA headquarters can also be contacted for support in arranging essential medicines.

Citizens can contact the FDA control room on mobile number 9890293253 for urgent assistance.