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India Well-Equipped to Handle Future Pandemics: Health Minister

Highlighting India's capabilities, the minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in fortifying the country’s health system. He pointed to key institutions such as the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), which plays a pivotal role in monitoring diseases and tracking emerging pathogens and viral mutations.

• By Newsdesk
• New Delhi
• Feb 05, 2025

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Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda reaffirmed India’s preparedness to tackle future pandemics and public health emergencies, citing a robust healthcare infrastructure developed over the past decade. Addressing the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, Nadda emphasized the government's proactive approach, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Highlighting India's capabilities, the minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in fortifying the country’s health system. He pointed to key institutions such as the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), which plays a pivotal role in monitoring diseases and tracking emerging pathogens and viral mutations.

"The NCDC functions as the apex body overseeing disease surveillance. It is supported by an Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), a dedicated platform that enables real-time tracking of health threats," Nadda stated. He further mentioned the deployment of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) across states, ensuring a swift and decentralized approach to disease containment.

In terms of infrastructure, Nadda highlighted India’s extensive laboratory network. The Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) operates 150 laboratories, complemented by viral research and diagnostic facilities. Additionally, the National Institute of Virology in Pune remains at the forefront of identifying mutations, guiding treatment protocols, and assessing medical interventions.

Beyond immediate pandemic response, the minister underscored the government’s commitment to long-term health security through the National One Health Mission. This initiative examines the impact of environmental changes, pesticide usage, and veterinary medicines on human health, aiming for a comprehensive approach to disease prevention.

Nadda also noted that pandemic preparedness is a global responsibility, with India's health ministry extending support to states and union territories to enhance their response mechanisms. The country's real-time health information platform further strengthens data-driven decision-making, ensuring swift action in case of emerging health threats.

India’s structured and multi-pronged approach, he assured, positions the nation well to combat future pandemics effectively.