ZEE News has brought sharp focus to alleged profiteering in the pharmaceutical sector and rising safety risks in medicine distribution through a special investigation aired on its show ‘DNA’, coinciding with World Health Day on April 7.

According to an official press release from Zee News, the development is based on a press-led disclosure by the network, where its public-interest journalism initiative highlighted systemic gaps in the pharmaceutical supply chain. The investigation points to inefficiencies and lack of transparency from wholesale procurement to retail distribution, enabling excessive mark-ups on essential medicines.

As per the findings, several commonly used medicines are being sold at significantly inflated prices, with margins reportedly ranging between 200 percent and over 1000 percent despite relatively low procurement costs. The report also raised concerns over the circulation of counterfeit drugs designed to closely resemble genuine products, including medicines used to treat critical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, infections and heart ailments.

The expose has triggered responses from authorities. Brijesh Pathak assured strict action against those found involved, while Pankaj Singh indicated that measures are being taken to address irregularities and improve access to affordable medicines. Other enforcement agencies have also signalled action against networks involved in counterfeit drug circulation.

Commenting on the development, Rahul Sinha said the network remains committed to informing and empowering citizens through on-ground reporting and investigative journalism that highlights issues impacting daily life.