India’s decisive action in Kerala’s Nipah outbreak signals a notable boost in pandemic readiness, boosted by its National One Health Mission focused on integrating human, animal, and environmental health
In a major public health achievement, India has effectively controlled the recent Nipah outbreak in Kerala thanks to a unified response from multiple agencies. In a related development, the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) has endorsed a new initiative—the National One Health Mission (NOHM)—to bridge gaps and improve coordination among thirteen key ministries and departments. The mission, guided by the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor, aims to enhance pandemic preparedness through a holistic approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health.
India’s public health infrastructure is undergoing significant upgrades. A national network of BSL-3 labs is operational, with extensive surveillance by the National Joint Outbreak Response Team, monitoring both human and wildlife health. Recent measures include an epidemiology training programme and comprehensive multi-sectoral responses to outbreaks.
These include organisations like the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), which has conducted extensive pig surveillance.
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) is now equipped with decentralised surveillance and Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) across all states, bolstered by real-time data reporting through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). Additionally, the Department of Health Research (DHR) has established over 150 Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDLs) to enhance virus diagnosis capabilities.
A substantial investment of Rs 386.86 Crore has been approved for the NOHM to strengthen integrated disease control and pandemic preparedness. This includes expanding surveillance, research, and global collaboration.
Further supporting these efforts, the Pradhan Mantri - Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) has been allocated Rs 64,180 Crore for 2021-26, focusing on critical care infrastructure, disease control, and pandemic research.
The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genome Sequencing (INSACOG) network continues to monitor new variants of SARS-CoV-2, ensuring timely detection. The PM-ABHIM and the NOHM programmes also emphasise community engagement and capacity building, with training and stakeholder workshops provided by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
This comprehensive strategy reflects India’s commitment to advancing public health and preparedness for future challenges.