Assistant Drug Controller Recruitment 2026: Latest Vacancies, Syllabus & Exam Pattern

Key Highlights for Assistant Drug Controller Jobs 2026

Job Profile & Responsibilities

An Assistant Drug Controller plays a critical role in the implementation and enforcement of drug laws and regulations. Their primary duties include:

• Conducting inspections of manufacturing units, pharmacies, and other establishments dealing with drugs and cosmetics.
• Ensuring compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and its rules.
• Granting, suspending, or refusing licenses for the manufacture, sale, and distribution of drugs.
• Taking samples of drugs for testing and analysis.
• Investigating violations and taking appropriate legal action.
• Keeping abreast of new developments in pharmaceutical sciences and regulatory affairs.
• Advising on matters related to drug quality control and public health.

Eligibility Criteria (Detailed)

The eligibility criteria for Assistant Drug Controller positions typically include:

• Educational Qualification: A Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a Master's degree in Chemistry with experience in drug control administration is generally required. Some roles might specify a degree in medicine with drug research experience.
• Minimum Experience: Depending on the level, some years of experience in pharmaceutical analysis, drug manufacturing, or related fields might be required.
• Age Limit: Candidates are usually expected to be between 21 and 30 years of age. Age relaxations are applicable for SC/ST, OBC, and other reserved categories as per government directives.
• Nationality: Must be a citizen of India.

Selection Process & Exam Pattern

The selection process for Assistant Drug Controller roles often involves multiple stages:

• Written Examination: This is typically the first stage, comprising objective-type questions. The syllabus usually covers subjects like Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, Drug Laws and Ethics, and General Aptitude/Reasoning.
• Skill Test / Interview: Candidates who clear the written exam proceed to the next stage, which may include a skill test (if applicable for specific roles) or a personal interview to assess their knowledge, aptitude, and suitability for the post.

Likely Topics for Written Exam:

• Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Medicinal Chemistry)
• Pharmacology & Toxicology
• Pharmaceutics (Dosage Forms, Drug Delivery Systems)
• Pharmacognosy & Phytochemistry
• Drug Laws and Ethics (Drugs & Cosmetics Act, NDPS Act)
• General Knowledge & Current Affairs
• Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability

Salary Structure & Allowances

Selected candidates for the Assistant Drug Controller post are appointed as per the latest Pay Commission recommendations. The salary typically falls under Pay Level-7 or higher, with a basic pay ranging from Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,42,400 per month. In addition to the basic pay, employees receive Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and other allowances as admissible by the government, making the total remuneration attractive.

How to Apply

Opportunities for Assistant Drug Controller positions are announced by both central and state government agencies. Candidates should:

• Monitor Official Websites: Regularly check the websites of the Central Drug Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), specific State Drug Control Departments, and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for direct recruitment notifications.
• Application Process: Applications are typically submitted online through the official recruitment portals of the respective organizations. Keep an eye out for application start and end dates.
• Documentation: Ensure all required documents, such as educational certificates, proof of identity, and caste certificates (if applicable), are ready for upload during the application.

Preparation Tips

• Thorough Syllabus Coverage: Focus on core subjects like Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and Drug Laws.
• Refer Standard Books: Consult standard textbooks for B.Pharm and M.Pharm courses, along with dedicated books on drug regulations.
• Mock Tests: Practice with mock tests to understand the exam pattern, time management, and question difficulty.
• Stay Updated: Keep track of current affairs related to the pharmaceutical industry and drug regulatory policies.