Medicines Are Not Mere Merchandise: Why India Needs a Modern E-Pharmacy Law
India's pharmaceutical future may well be digital. The responsibility of policymakers is to ensure that it is also safe, transparent, and worthy of public trust K.V. CHANDRAMOULI India's pharmaceutical laws were designed for an era of neighbourhood chemists and paper prescriptions. As online medicine sales expand rapidly, the challenge is to harness digital convenience without compromising patient safety, professional accountability, and public health . A Growing Controversy in Digital Healthcare On 20 May 2026, the Chemists and Druggists Association of Goa joined a nationwide protest involving nearly 12 lakh wholesale and retail pharmaceutical outlets. Their grievance was not merely commercial competition from online pharmacies, but the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the sale of medicines through digital platforms. The protest has revived an important public policy question: Should medicines be treated like any other commodity sold through e-commerce platforms, or do they require a distinct regulatory architecture because of their direct impact on human health and life? The answer has far-reaching implications for healthcare, technology, consumer protection, and public safety. The Promise of E-Pharmacies India's e-pharmacy sector, estimated to be worth more than 1,200 crore and growing rapidly, offers undeniable advantages. Elderly patients, persons with disabilities, and residents of remote areas can access medicines without travelling long distances. Digital platforms provide price transparency, doorstep delivery, and integration with telemedicine services. During the COVID-19 pandemic, online pharmacies demonstrated their utility in maintaining continuity of treatment when physical movement was restricted. Why Medicines Are Different from Other Commodities Yet medicines are fundamentally different from books, garments, or groceries. They are potent therapeutic substances whose misuse can result in addiction, antimicrobial resistance, serious adverse effects, and even death. Consequently, the central issue is not whether e-pharmacies should exist, but whether they can be allowed to operate without adequate safeguards. India already faces a significant burden of self-medication. The Global Antibiotic Resistance Partnership estimated that nearly 20 per cent of antibiotics sold in Delhi were dispensed without valid prescriptions. Such practices contribute directly to antimicrobial resistance, which the World Health Organisation has identified as one of the gravest global public health threats of the twenty-first century. Unregulated online access could further aggravate this problem by facilitating easy acquisition of prescription medicines without meaningful medical supervision. Public Health Risks in the Digital Marketplace The concerns are not hypothetical. Prescription forgery, repeated use of the same prescription, online procurement of habit-forming drugs, sale of counterfeit medicines, and improper storage during transportation are all recognised risks. Unlike ordinary consumer goods, many medicines require controlled storage conditions throughout the supply chain. Vaccines, insulin preparations, biological products, and certain injectable drugs may lose efficacy if exposed to temperatures outside prescribed limits. A defective shirt may inconvenience a consumer; a defective medicine can cost a life. The Problem of Outdated Laws These concerns expose a deeper problem: India's regulatory framework was designed for a pre-digital era. The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, enacted during British rule, remains the principal legislation governing the manufacture, sale, and distribution of drugs in India. The Act was framed at a time when pharmaceutical transactions occurred exclusively through physical establishments. Unsurprisingly, it contains no reference to internet-based sales, digital prescriptions, online platforms, electronic records, or interstate e-commerce transactions. The Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 Similarly, the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, were designed around conventional retail pharmacies. They prescribe requirements relating to licensed premises, physical inspections, maintenance of records, pharmacist supervision, and storage conditions. While these provisions remain relevant, they are difficult to apply in an environment where medicines may be ordered through a mobile application, stored in a warehouse hundreds of kilometres away, and delivered through third-party logistics providers. The Pharmacy Act, 1948 The Pharmacy Act, 1948, presents another challenge. The Act rightly recognises that medicines should be dispensed under the supervision of qualified pharmacists capable of identifying prescription errors, advising patients, detecting dangerous drug interactions, and ensuring proper usage. However, the law does not clearly address remote dispensing, digital pharmacist consultations, or professional accountability in online transactions. Thus, India is attempting to regulate twenty-first-century technology through legal instruments drafted more than seventy-five years ago. Judicial Intervention and International Experience This regulatory gap has repeatedly attracted judicial attention. In 2018, the Delhi High Court directed that medicines should not be sold online without adherence to statutory requirements and highlighted the absence of a clear regulatory framework. The litigation underscored a reality that policymakers can no longer ignore: digital pharmaceutical commerce has outgrown the legal architecture designed to govern it. International experience offers useful lessons. South Korea prohibits the online sale of medicines. Several European countries permit e-pharmacies but subject them to stringent licensing and verification requirements. The United States enacted the Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act following the death of a teenager who obtained controlled substances online without adequate medical oversight. The legislation mandates valid prescriptions, registration requirements, and severe penalties for violations. India does not need to replicate any foreign model wholesale, but it cannot continue operating in a regulatory vacuum. The Case for a Dedicated E-Pharmacy Law The way forward lies neither in banning e-pharmacies nor in allowing unrestricted online sales. Instead, India requires a comprehensive E-Pharmacy Regulation Act specifically tailored to contemporary realities. Such legislation should begin by clearly defining e-pharmacies and establishing a national licensing framework under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). Every online pharmacy should be required to verify prescriptions through secure digital authentication systems. Prescriptions should carry unique identification numbers and digitally verifiable signatures from registered medical practitioners. Strengthening Professional Oversight Mandatory pharmacist oversight must remain non-negotiable. Technology should complement professional judgment rather than replace it. Video consultations, telephonic counselling, and documented pharmacist approvals can ensure that patients continue to receive expert guidance before medicines are dispensed. Ensuring Traceability and Enforcement The law must also establish end-to-end traceability of medicines through digital tracking systems capable of monitoring products from manufacturer to consumer. Such systems would significantly reduce the circulation of counterfeit and spurious medicines, a problem that has long plagued India's pharmaceutical sector. Equally important is strengthening enforcement capacity. State drug-control departments frequently face shortages of inspectors and technological resources. A modern regulatory system should utilise artificial intelligence, real-time transaction monitoring, and inter-state data sharing to identify suspicious purchasing patterns, forged prescriptions, and unlawful sales of controlled substances. A Risk-Based Regulatory Approach A risk-based regulatory framework is also desirable. Over-the-counter medicines may be subject to lighter controls, whereas Schedule H, H1, and X drugs should require progressively stricter levels of scrutiny and verification. Balancing Innovation with Safety The future of healthcare is undeniably digital. Telemedicine, electronic health records, wearable health technologies, and online pharmaceutical services are becoming integral components of modern healthcare delivery. Attempting to resist this transformation would be both impractical and counterproductive. However, technological innovation cannot be allowed to outpace patient safety. Medicines occupy a unique position at the intersection of commerce and healthcare. Conclusion: Building Trust in Digital Healthcare The debate over e-pharmacies should therefore move beyond the narrow conflict between traditional chemists and online businesses. The real challenge is to create a regulatory framework that preserves the convenience and efficiency of digital platforms while upholding the standards of safety, accountability, and professional oversight that healthcare demands. India's pharmaceutical future may well be digital. The responsibility of policymakers is to ensure that it is also safe, transparent, and worthy of public trust. (The Author is BE (Mech), BOE, ASME, Deputy Director of Boilers (Retd.), Mysuru)
Mysurus young men give second chance of life to injured tortoise
Mysuru: In a remarkable act of compassion and wildlife conservation, two youths from Mysuru successfully rescued an injured tortoise, repaired its severely damaged shell and released it back into its natural habitat after nursing it back to health. The incident took place near Mallipura village in Nanjangud taluk, where canal repair work was underway a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Mysuru restobar fire: Five Excise officials suspended
No unusual deaths at Jayadeva Mysuru, says Karnataka Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil
The Minister noted that the mortality rate at Jayadeva hospitals Bengaluru, Mysuru and Kalaburagi units ranges between 4 and 6%, significantly lower than the national average of 9 to 11% for cardiac care institutions.
Gulbarga Mystics gears up for Maharaja Trophy 2026
The fifth edition of Karnataka State Cricket Associations T20 tournament will be played in Mysuru, Hubballi and Bengaluru starting Saturday
SDPI demands probe into alleged deaths at Jayadeva hospital in Mysuru
11 die at Jayadeva in Mysuru; director says patients arrived beyond golden hour
The deaths have sparked concerns not only among residents of Mysuru but also among people from neighbouring districts, as the hospital serves as a major referral centre for cardiac care in the region.
11 Deaths at Cardiovascular Institute Triggers Alarm in Mysuru
The average deaths at the Institute ranges is about 6 deaths, which comes close to internationally accepted figures
Mysuru: SC/ST Commission seeks report on reservation in tender works
Tirupati laddu quality gets scientific boost
Mysuru : In a significant move aimed at preserving the quality, purity and nutritional value of the world-famous Tirupati Laddu, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has entered into a formal agreement with Mysuru-based Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI). The collaboration seeks to strengthen quality control mechanisms in the preparation of prasadam and other temple Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Two Charred To Death By Fire At A Bar In Mysuru, 15 Rescued
The deceased have been identified as Sahil and Prakash. Both were in the kitchen when a fire ravaged the bar and destroyed the belongings there. Injured persons have been identified as Sonu, Ramesh, Mahadev Prasad, Prajwal, Avinash and pub owner Preetham Pumeeth.
2 killed, 7 injured in fire at resto-pub in Karnataka's Mysuru - The Tribune
2 killed, 7 injured in fire at resto-pub in Karnataka's Mysuru The Tribune
Passengers get traditional Mysuru welcome as AAI celebrates Yatri Suvidha Diwas
Are Mysuru lakes drowning in sewage?
Video: 2 Killed, 6 Including Owner Injured In Massive Fire At Mysuru Pub
Those undergoing treatment in the hospital include customers Sonu, Ramesh, Mahadev Prasad, Prajwal, Avinash, and the pub owner, Pritam Pumeet.
2 killed, 7 injured in massive fire at Mysuru bar and restaurant
Mysuru: A devastating fire accident at a popular bar and restaurant in Karnatakas Mysuru claimed two lives and left seven others injured on Monday, June 15. The incident occurred at the well-known Fox Den Liquor Garage Bar and Restaurant located near Dattagalli on Ring Road in the citys RT Nagar area. According to preliminary information, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
100% ethanol fuel approval cheers sugarcane growers in Mysuru
Festival of indigenous seeds and seed conservators concludes in Mysuru
Karun Nair Named Coastal Kings Mangaluru Captain Ahead Of Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season 5
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season: Coastal Kings Mangaluru announced Karun Nair as captain ahead of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season 5 during a press conference held in Mangaluru on Sunday. The franchise also unveiled its inaugural squad, announced its leadership group, launched the Coastal Kings Mangaluru anthem and unveiled the team's official jersey as it gears up for its maiden campaign in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. The event was attended by Dr. Srikanth Rai, Chairman, KSCA Mangalore Zone, B.N. Madhukar, Hon. Treasurer, KSCA, Avinash Vaidya, Managing Committee Member, KSCA, Vinod Naidu, Director, Manyata Developers and Owner, Coastal Kings Mangaluru, Indian cricketers Karun Nair and Shreyas Gopal, Kannada and Tulu film actor Roopesh Shetty, KSCA office bearers, Coastal Kings Mangaluru players, and management The Coastal Kings Mangaluru Team jersey was unveiled by B.N. Madhukar, Hon. Treasurer, KSCA, while Avinash Vaidya, Managing Committee Member, KSCA, launched the official Coastal Kings Mangaluru Team Anthem. Karun Nair expressed his delight at leading the franchise in its maiden season. The Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 is a great platform for players across Karnataka to showcase their talent. I'm really privileged to be named captain of Coastal Kings Mangaluru and would like to thank Vinod sir and everyone involved with the franchise for their faith in me. Our focus will be on playing good cricket, giving our best in every game and trying to bring the trophy home to Mangaluru, he said. Lauding Maharaja Trophy as a vehicle to inspire players, Shreyas Gopal also spoke about the players who inspired him during his journey in the game. Like most players of my generation, I grew up watching Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble. They were the people who really inspired me to pursue cricket in a much more serious way, he said. Gopal called on cricket fans in the region to back the team throughout the season. To all the Coastal Kings Mangaluru fans, I want you to come out in large numbers, support us and cheer for us. We promise to put our best efforts forward, play good cricket and put on a great show for you, he added. Speaking about the franchise's vision, Coastal Kings Mangaluru owner Vinod Naidu said the team aims to represent the entire coastal region while also contributing to the growth of cricket at the grassroots level. We are proud to become the new franchise of this beautiful city, Mangaluru. We are not only representing Mangaluru, but the entire coastal region of Karnataka, and that's why we call it Coastal Kings Mangaluru. Our vision is pretty clear , under the direction of KSCA, we want to promote grassroots cricket in this region. We will make sure that Coastal Kings Mangaluru is not just about the Maharaja Trophy, but also about staying connected with grassroots cricketers across Mangaluru and coastal Karnataka, he said. The fifth edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 will be played from June 20 to July 12 across Mysuru, Hubballi and Bengaluru. We are proud to become the new franchise of this beautiful city, Mangaluru. We are not only representing Mangaluru, but the entire coastal region of Karnataka, and that's why we call it Coastal Kings Mangaluru. Our vision is pretty clear , under the direction of KSCA, we want to promote grassroots cricket in this region. We will make sure that Coastal Kings Mangaluru is not just about the Maharaja Trophy, but also about staying connected with grassroots cricketers across Mangaluru and coastal Karnataka, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Coach: Ganesh Satish Article Source: IANS
Eye surgeon couple from Mysuru lead camp in Ghana
Highlighting the urgent need for paediatric eye care in Sub Saharan Africa, Dr. K.V. Ravishankar an estimated 80,000 children require cataract surgery in the region
Yatri Suvidha Diwas at Mysuru airport on June 15
The Yatri Suvidha Diwas, organised by AAI, Mysuru airport, aims to reaffirm its commitment to passenger-centric services, community engagement, cultural heritage, and sustainable development
Students showcase their robotic and bio-mimetic machine systems at Open Day in Mysuru
The club showcased a bird-inspired ornithopter surveillance drone, a robot dog and a 6-axis robotic arm adaptable for multiple industrial applications
Young Indian Parliament chapter round in Mysuru
New MGP portal chronicles Mysurus civic and consumer rights movement
The portal brings decades of Mysurus civic activism to the public
Suspended jailer found dead in Dharwad quarters
Dharwad: A suspended jailer who was recently transferred from Dharwad to Mysuru was found dead in the prison department quarters near the New Bus Stand in Dharwad, triggering shock within the department and among his family members. The deceased has been identified as Siddaramappa Vaddar, 37. According to sources, he had been placed under suspension Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
NHAI drops plan for barrier-free tolling on Bengaluru-Mysuru highway
The BengaluruMysuru Access-Controlled Highway (NH-275) had earlier been identified as one of the corridors where NHAI planned to pilot the MLFF system.
Two-day desi seed festival begins in Mysuru on Saturday
Composite Skill Lab at Notre Dame School and PU College inaugurated in Mysuru
The NHAI is planning to establish toll collection points at various entry and exit locations along the 119-km highway, replacing the existing system under which vehicles pay a fixed toll at designated toll plazas.
Rainy respite: Showers bless parts of Mysuru after dry spell
Lecture on quantum mechanics to be held in Mysuru
Bengaluru seeks Centres nod for RRTS links to Mysuru, Tumakuru, Kolar
The proposal was among several key metro and transport infrastructure projects for which Mr. Shivakumar sought early approval from the Union government.
Pending dues, incentive cuts trigger ASHA workers protest in Mysuru
Legislature Committee reviews condition of street vendors in Mysuru
Mysuru: Legislative panel seeks stringent action against drug networks
Members raise concern over rising narcotics availability in Mysuru; call for stronger enforcement and convictions
Tragic Incident in Karnataka: Businessman Kills Family Before Taking His Own Life
Mysuru, June 10: In a shocking incident in Karnatakas Mandya district, a textile businessman reportedly murdered his wife and son before committing suicide. The tragic events unfolded on Tuesday. The deceased have been identified as 65-year-old Prabhakar, his 55-year-old wife Jyoti, and their 30-year-old son Santosh. According to police reports, Prabhakar allegedly strangled his wife ... Read more Tragic Incident in Karnataka: Businessman Kills Family Before Taking His Own Life
CFTRI-Mysuru leverages AI for food safety, post-harvest management
Students visit Mysuru airport as part of aviation familiarisation
Mysuru City Police crack 41 property theft cases in three months
Major haul of ganja seized on Mysuru citys border
Study to highlight Mysurus footpath woes; MGP to seek solutions
The meeting, titled Giving footpaths back to pedestrians, will feature preliminary findings from the ongoing study being conducted by students on the latest status of footpaths in the city
Yoga Day: Mysuru targets 1.2 lakh participants across 120 venues
Heritage weighing machine restored and unveiled at Mysuru Railway Museum
Mysuru Travel Mart 2026 begins, focuses on boosting tourism and investment
Greenpeace hands over street design plan to officials in Mysuru
Mysuru goes green on World Environment Day
Plantation and tree-saving initiatives mark the day
Ride-hailing app with driver subscription model to be launched in Mysuru
CII, MCC to launch Adopt-a-Stretch initiative in Mysuru
The campaign aims to position Mysuru among the cleanest cities in the country; clean-up drive to be held on Saturday as part of the World Environment Day celebrations
SIR: 96% voters mapped in Mysuru district
Caste, Clout, Continuity: Congress Ticks All Boxes In Karnataka, Except One
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and State Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda provide representation to the influential Vokkaliga community, which remains politically dominant across the Old Mysuru region.
Ministerial hopefuls from Mysuru await expansion amid change of guard in state
Except for Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Mysuru district and the surrounding districts of Chamarajanagar,Mandyaand Kodagu have been left entirely unrepresented inShivakumars Cabinet
Railways nab fake TTE on Bengaluru-Shivamogga route
Mysuru: A 26-year-old man who allegedly impersonated a Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) and attempted to collect money from passengers aboard a train has been arrested and handed over to the Government Railway Police (GRP) for further legal action. The accused has been identified as MK Rakibuddin, a resident of Shivamogga district. According to railway officials, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Congress workers in Mysuru celebrate D.K. Shivakumars elevation as CM
Railways Ministry nod sought for 422 crore Mysuru railway station upgrade
Durga Stalin visits Chamundeshwari temple, calls on GTD family in Mysuru
Jayalalithaas elder brother Vasudevan passes away at 92 in Mysuru
Mysuru: NJ Vasudevan, the elder brother of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, passed away on Tuesday morning, Juen 2, due to age-related ailments. He was 92. Vasudevan breathed his last at the residence of his adopted daughter in Chamanahalli village near Bannur in Mysuru district, where he had been residing for several years. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Schools in Mysuru reopen amid merger concerns
Horatti releases Sadhaneya Shikharagalu book in Mysuru
Mysuru Travel Mart 2026 to showcase citys tourism potential
Back to school: Mysuru welcomes students with festive spirit
Drawing and painting contest at Mysuru Rail Museum
Yoga sessions to be held across 120 locations in Mysuru on June 21
As the coming Yoga Day was the 12th Yoga day, the Mysuru Yoga Federation had planned to mark the occasion by holding yoga sessions at 120 venues
St. Josephs Central School emerge champs in Mysuru NCC camp
AI to shape future of higher education, universities told
At a seminar held at JSS STU in Mysuru, academic leaders and former VCs call for embracing Artificial Intelligence to redefine higher education and prepare for next generation of graduates
Video: Mysuru woman calls Assam migrant workers illegal Bangladeshis
Mysuru: A video from Mysuru, Karnataka, has surfaced on social media platforms where a woman is allegedly branding migrant workers from Assam as illegal Bangladeshis, much to their anger. The woman, identified as Padma Shree, can be heard saying, Tum log sahi sahi bolo Bangladesh se aaye hua na? Ghuspeti log hai na tum log Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
50 crore road projects approved for Mysuru district: MP
Major road infrastructure boost under Central fund
Mysuru positioned to become preferred healthcare destination in State, says Health Minister
Mysuru hosts three-day organic mango and jackfruit festival
Flybrary to come up soon at Mysuru airport
CESC begins citywide outreach on PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Three-day awareness campaign on rooftop solar scheme launched in Mysuru
Mysuru supporters pray for D.K. Shivakumars elevation as Karnataka Chief Minister
A 43-year-old IT professional from Karnataka tragically died after being struck by lightning while visiting farmland in Mysuru with his family. Roshan Balakrishna, who had recently shifted from the corporate sector to agriculture, was reportedly plucking mangoes when the incident occurred. His family will receive Rs 5 lakh as compensation. The incident has once again highlighted the risks of lightning strikes during the monsoon season, especially in open farmland areas.
Karnataka Techie, 43, Killed By Lightning While Visiting Farmland With Family
Roshan had gone to Mysuru to inspect a piece of land related to his agricultural plans. He was accompanied by his wife and son at the time of the visit.
Bengaluru, May 28: Political activity in Karnataka has intensified regarding the Chief Minister position. Amid rumors of Siddaramaiahs resignation, excitement is growing among Congress workers about the possibility of D.K. Shivakumar taking over as Chief Minister. In Mysuru, Tejesh Lokesh Gowda, the district president of the Karnataka Army, performed a prayer ritual for Lord Ganesha, ... Read more Political Turmoil in Karnataka: D.K. Shivakumars Chief Ministerial Aspirations Rise Amid Siddaramaiah Resignation Rumors
Major Ivory Smuggling Ring Busted in Mysuru, Over 4 Kilograms of Ivory Seized
Mysuru, May 27: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a significant wildlife smuggling ring operating in Mysuru, Karnataka, under the Mumbai zonal unit. This operation took place on May 26, 2026, resulting in the seizure of 4.058 kilograms of Indian elephant ivory and the arrest of three individuals involved in the illegal trade. ... Read more Major Ivory Smuggling Ring Busted in Mysuru, Over 4 Kilograms of Ivory Seized
Two die in lightning strike in Mysuru district
AI-assisted Kannada translation of My Name is Gauhar Jaan to be released in Mysuru on May 30
Deficient pre-monsoon rains in Kodagu, Mysuru trigger Kharif concerns
Extra Trips Announced for Mysuru-Madar Summer Special Train
Chittorgarh, May 27 (Udaipur Kiran) Keeping in view the heavy rush during summer vacations, North Western Railway has decided to increase additional trips of the Mysuru-Madar-Mysuru weekly special train passing through Chittorgarh. The train service is widely used by passengers travelling between Rajasthan and South India. The route connects six states including Karnataka, Andhra ... Read more Extra Trips Announced for Mysuru-Madar Summer Special Train
CII to host MYHOPE 2026 meet on Mysuru hospitals
Tide Crosses 2 Million Members Worldwide with India Driving the Next Phase of Growth
Continuing to grow in the UK and internationally, with India seeing especially strong member growth Over 70% of Tide's Indian members are under 35 years; adoption has been strongest across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities Rapid roll out of products; from admin, accounting and tax tools; subscription options; payment solutions; government registrations; bill payments and credit Tide, the UKs leading business management platform, today announces it has crossed 2 million members globally, with India in particular seeing strong growth. More than 1.1 million small businesses joined Tide in India since the company launched there in December 2022. This makes India Tides fastest-growing market by member acquisition. The UK is Tides home market, with 900,000 SMEs, 15% market share, and the majority of the companys revenue. Tide is steadily expanding its presence in Europe, with Germany and France, where the platform is gaining strong traction, thanks to millions of small businesses turning to digital to manage their businesses. In late 2025, Tide received a strategic investment from TPG, a leading global alternative asset manager, valuing the company at $1.5 billion. Oliver Prill, CEO of Tide , said, We are delighted to be crossing the 2 million member milestone. This number is a testament to the trust that our members place in us in all our markets. Behind every number, theres a story of a member choosing a simpler, less time-heavy, connected way of managing their business." This success is also thanks to the passion our teams bring to their role every day. From our world-leading 900-strong product engineering teams, to operations, marketing and support functions; a commitment to excellence and agility has brought us to this point. Indias growth in member numbers is phenomenal, and shows how getting the product-market fit right when considering new markets is crucial. Well continue to expand both internationally and provide a richer and more connected product offering, ensuring we focus at all times on our mission to save members time and money. India: Powering Tides global growth story India has emerged as a key growth engine for Tide, contributing over 1.1 million members to its global base in just over two years since launch. This rapid adoption underscores the scale of opportunity in one of the worlds largest SME ecosystems, with over 72 million registered and an unofficially estimated 140 million informal businesses. Growth in India is being driven not just by metros, but increasingly by tier 2 and 3 cities. Emerging hubs such as Bareilly, Bhopal, Murshidabad, Mysuru, Lucknow and North 24 Parganas are leading the shift, highlighting how entrepreneurial activity is steadily expanding beyond urban centres. This shift reflects a broader movement towards greater financial inclusion and formalisation, as entrepreneurs there look to build more structured, scalable businesses. Tide is playing a key role in this transition by simplifying access to essential services such as Udyam and GST registration and lending enabling small businesses to build a financial footprint, improve access to credit, and unlock growth opportunities. Gurjodhpal Singh, CEO, Tide India, said, This milestone goes beyond a number, it reflects the strong momentum we are building in India. With over 70% of our members under the age of 35, we are witnessing a new generation of digital-first entrepreneurs shaping the future of business in India. What we are seeing on the ground is a strong shift towards digital adoption and formalisation, especially beyond metros, where access to the right tools can make a meaningful difference. Tides growth in India reflects this demand and further underscores our deep connection with the Bharat growth story. India is also emerging as a key hub for product innovation at Tide, with solutions built here creating scalable use cases for global markets. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on building intuitive financial and administrative tools that enable MSMEs to operate more efficiently and scale with confidence. Highlights: Product pipeline, International expansion and the future Product pipeline : Growth is driven by our product offering and relentless ambition to solve SME problems. Tides all-in-one business management platform provides members with access to government registrations, time-saving accounting and administrative tools, and integrated team management features. It also offers fixed deposits, affordable credit, seamless payment solutions, bill payments, and website building. Tides objective is to deliver integrated solutions that address the core needs of small businesses, from inception to growth. UK: More than 900,000 members, and 15% market share, against a backdrop of 5.2m small businesses, make Tide the leading business management platform. The focus is on diversification and connectivity, with products that are admin and business friendly. Europe: Bringing the full richness of Tides UK platform to each of its international markets over time. Tide is also looking to further expand its presence on the European mainland. Following the entry of Germany the previous year, Tide entered France in late 2025. Tides Credit Intermediation is leading initial growth in these two EU markets with over EUR 50 million already disbursed. Tide recently announced the establishment of its European headquarters in Luxembourg. AI: Tide is leveraging AI to generate growth in regulated environments, using its large, proprietary SME dataset to gain real-time insights within a strong risk framework. This data advantage enables it to build practical, scalable AI tools that solve everyday small business challenges, such as access to finance. Tideans: Strengthening its leadership and OneTeam Bernie Miles joined as Chief Data and Technology Officer (CDTO) in 2026, providing a major boost to Tides Executive Team. Dan McNally joined as SVP and CEO of Tide Insurance Services in late 2025, to lead its growing global insurance business and advance the next phase of Tides expansion into business protection. Marc Lacroix joined as Country Managing Director for France in mid-2025, to launch Tide in France, with a view to building a team on the ground. More than 2,800 employees and rising; largely in the UK; India, Germany, France, Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Lithuania, and Serbia. Women in Business : Dedicated to supporting female-led businesses in the UK and India, with a goal to onboard 700,000 women by the end of 2027 - 200,000 in the UK and 500,000 in India. Two Tide owned reports in India and in the UK in 2025 highlighted the challenges and opportunities for women in business. Women currently account for 22% (more than the national average) of members, the company strongly believes that supporting women business owners is a powerful lever of economic growth. Net Zero : Using carbon removals to match all Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, a practice maintained since 2022. Tide is also firmly on track to reduce CO2e emissions per employee by 90% by 2030, and by doing so to also reduce emissions by revenue by 97%. Tide is now working to make the transition to net zero easier for its members by providing integrated tools and support to help them achieve their goals. About Tide Launched in 2017, Tide is the leading business management platform in the UK. Tide helps small businesses save time and money by not only offering business accounts and related admin services, but also a comprehensive set of highly usable and connected administrative solutions from invoicing to accounting and adjacent commercial services such as web-site building. Tide has 900,000 SME members in the UK (15% market share) and more than 1.1m SMEs in India. Tide launched in Germany in May 2024 and France in September 2025. Tide has also been recognised with the Great Place to Work certification three years in a row. Tide has been funded by Anthemis, the Apax Digital Funds, Augmentum Fintech, Creandum, Salica Investments, Latitude, LocalGlobe, SBI Group, Speedinvest and TPG, amongst others. It employs more than 2,800 Tideans worldwide. Tides long-term ambition is to be the leading business management platform globally. LinkedIn X Instagram Facebook 1 Tide is not a bank in India, but a business financial platform. Tide, in the UK is the leading digital platform in business banking services. We believe that a platform approach is the future of business and admin needs, allowing us to offer both financial and admin services to SMEs, saving them time (and money) to allow them to focus on what they love: running their businesses.
Mimicry case: Ranveervisits Chamundeshwari temple after HC directive
PTI Mysuru (Karnataka) Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh on Tuesday visited the Chamundeshwari temple here and offered prayers after the Karnataka High Court directed him to visit the shrine in the Kantara mimicry case against him, officials said. The visit to the shrine atop Chamundi Hills comes in the wake of the Karnataka High Court directive. []
Jayadeva Mysuru sets up exclusive counter to ease patient access
Chief Minister to lay foundation stone for a new 200-bed hospital block, estimated to cost 180 core, in August this year, says the Director
Mysuru students shine in SOF 202526
Kantara mimicry: Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh visits Chamundeshwari temple in Mysuru
The visit to the shrine on top of Chamundi Hills comes in the wake of the Karnataka High Court directive
Mysuru man offers Rs 30 lakh contract to kill nephew over property dispute
Mysuru: In a shocking case linked to a property dispute, Mysuru police have arrested six persons, including notorious rowdies, for allegedly plotting to murder a man after his maternal uncle reportedly offered a Rs 30 lakh contract to eliminate him over ancestral property sharing issues. Addressing reporters, Mysuru Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi said the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Mysuru maps 1,396 high-risk zones ahead of Pulse Polio campaign
Mysuru man who built 15-lakh books library to receive Padma Shri
Ankegowda, an extraordinary bibliophile from rural Karnataka, is set to receive the prestigious Padma Shri award from President Droupadi Murmu today. Recognised under the Unsung Heroes category, his national accolade celebrates an exceptional lifelong contribution to librarianship and the preservation of literary heritage. As the founder of Ankegowda Pustaka Mane (House of Books), he has Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
MGP backs BEML OHC, calls for alternative to tree felling
Decides against lodging formal objection; acknowledges BEMLs greening efforts on its Mysuru campus
Tobacco control key to TB elimination, say experts at Mysuru workshop
