Union Health Ministry Issues Advisory on Regulation of Stem Cell Therapy

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued an advisory to States and Union Territories regarding the regulation of stem cell therapy, following a Supreme Court judgment in Yash Charitable Trust & Ors. v. Union of India & Ors. The advisory states that stem cell therapy as standard care can only be permitted for Ministry-approved disease indications. For Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), therapeutic use of stem cells is restricted to clinical trials with necessary regulatory approvals. Unproven stem cell interventions cannot be offered commercially. The National Medical Commission also issued an advisory stating that unauthorized administration or promotion constitutes professional misconduct, inviting disciplinary action and penalties under the Clinical Establishments Act.