Step 1: What is the Pharmacy Act, 1948?
The Pharmacy Act, 1948 is the central legislation in India that regulates the pharmacy profession. It establishes educational standards, registration of pharmacists, and the governing body for the profession.
Step 2: What is the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)?
PCI is the apex body that regulates pharmacy education and practice in India. It prescribes educational standards, approves pharmacy courses, and maintains a central register of pharmacists.
Step 3: Under which section is PCI constituted?
The Pharmacy Council of India is constituted under Section 3 of the Pharmacy Act, 1948. This section specifically establishes PCI, describes its composition, and outlines the powers of the Council.
Step 4: Eliminate wrong options.
Section 2 of the Pharmacy Act deals with definitions. Section 10 relates to the functions and powers of State Pharmacy Councils. Section 15 deals with the register of pharmacists. None of these constitute PCI.
Step 5: Confirm.
Section 3 of the Pharmacy Act, 1948 is the founding provision that constitutes the Pharmacy Council of India.
Answer: Option (2) — Section 3