In time of need (US India relations and drug supplies)

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 In time of need (US India relations and drug supplies)

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• It's a drug: India imposed a blanket ban on the export of anti-malaria drug HCQ (Hydroxychloroquine) on 04-April 2020. It was clear that no exceptions will be made even on humanitarian grounds or otherwise. On 06th April, India changed its stand.
• We will export: Hours after Donald Trump warned of "retaliation", India announced a revoking of the "ban" on HCQ exports.

1. US had already placed orders for that drug
2. It is clear that US pressure worked on India
3. But this is not new - solidarity too is seen among nations, even as they battle the virus at home
4. PM promised that "India will help in this fight against the virus"

• Pharmacy of global south: India is a pharmacy leader of the developing world, and its decision to help others is a good one. India also needs testing kits from others now.
• Gain in reciprocity: India can gain later after this current help in supplying the HCQ drug, as President Trump himself is touting its benefits (though it's scientifically unproven).

1. In India, the ICMR approved its use as prophylaxis for COVID-19 by some categories of patients and citizens (March 23)
2. By March 26, export controls had been imposed and Schedule H1 restrictions too (no over the counter sales)
3. So self medication and hoarding was curbed
4. Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases need it regularly

• The numbers: India can produce 20 crore HCQ tables (200 mg each) per month, with 3 big firms making it.

1. These firms can scale up if needed
2. India may not run out of HCQ in short term (remember that COVID-19 National Taskforce made recommendations based on weak, anecdotal evidences only)
3. The US CDCP has explained on April 7 that there is no drug available to prevent COVID-19 (very important fact) 

• Summary : The unproven drug HCQ raised a mini storm in April 2020, but all nations must help each other if possible, and when in need.

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