NEW DELHI, September 10: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has said work under the National One Health Mission is progressing, with India expanding integrated surveillance across human, animal and environmental health systems.
Wastewater Surveillance to Reach 75 Cities
ICMR Director-General Dr Rajiv Bahl said wastewater surveillance for 13 priority pathogens, currently operating in 47 cities, is planned to expand to 75 cities in 2027.
Integrated Disease Surveillance in Focus
The mission is strengthening:
- Human, animal and wildlife disease surveillance
- Wastewater monitoring
- Genomic and metagenomic testing
- Early detection of emerging pathogens
- Pandemic preparedness
Five genomic and metagenomic hubs have also been established to improve detection of new or unidentified pathogens.
National Biosecurity Policy Also Under Preparation
The update came in response to concerns over biological threats and emerging diseases. The Ministry of Home Affairs is also drafting a National Biosecurity Policy in consultation with stakeholders.
The One Health Mission brings together multiple ministries and departments to coordinate India’s response to diseases affecting humans, animals and the environment.
source – ICMR / The Indian Express
Supreme News Network
