Indian govt bans export of anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine with immediate effect amid the intense novel coronavirus crisis in the country to ensure there is sufficient availability of the medicine in the domestic market.

This drug was highly recommended by Balram Bhargava, director-general of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) this Monday for treating healthcare workers who are closely dealing with COVID-19 infected cases.

This ICMR recommendation was approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) for restricted use in emergency situations. Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), an arm of the commerce ministry regulated ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine with immediate effect.