Draft Western Ghats Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) Notified
Several activities will be prohibited or regulated within the ESA, including mining, expansion of existing polluting industries, and large-scale construction projects. Existing mining operations will be phased out within five years. However, existing healthcare facilities and repair/extension of residential houses are exempted.
Relaxing Norms for Toxicity Studies in Drug Approval
The CDSCO aims to streamline the drug approval process without compromising safety. The New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019 allow for the acceptance of preclinical toxicity data generated in other countries, provided the data is of high quality and meets specified standards.
India Launches National One Health Mission for Pandemic Preparedness
Recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, the mission aims to foster collaboration among various sectors for a comprehensive approach to public health emergencies. The mission will establish a robust surveillance network to monitor disease outbreaks across different species.
New Format for Consent Forms Proposed Under PCPNDT Act
This proposed new consent will be required for all invasive or non- invasive techniques, tests or procedures. The new proposed consent form seeks to explicitly include consent from the husband, partner or father of the patient. Such consent also expressly states that breach of the consent shall make such person liable to be penalized under the Act.
Great Overhaul Proposed In Application and Registration Forms Under PCPNDT
The new proposed form seeks detailed information about the applicant, the facility, and the services offered. It also includes specific requirements for the disposal of old ultrasound machines and other equipment to prevent their misuse for sex determination. Additionally, the proposed revised certificate will specifically mention the procedures that are not specified in the current certificates such as echocardiography, ophthalmology, urology, veterinary purposes, etc.
Fixed Timelines Proposed For Registration and Renewal Under PNDT Act
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) is proposing to regulate processing time for registration and renewal applications under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC&PNDT) Act, 1994. The proposed amendments aim to expedite the decision-making process for registration and renewal applications, with a target turnaround time of 70 days.
Stricter Rules Proposed for Disposal of Ultrasound Machines
Ultrasound clinics and imaging centers will be required to inform authorities within seven days of disposing of old, unused or obsolete ultrasound machines or imaging machines. Renewal of licenses for facilities operating these machines will be contingent upon the proper disposal of old machines. Additionally, there will be no permission granted for addition or procurement of a new machines until old machines are disposed in prescribed manner.
New Digital Platform to Streamline Health Insurance Claims
The government has launched the National Health Claims Exchange (NHCX) as part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. This digital platform aims to simplify and expedite the health insurance claims process for both insurers and patients.
India Launches Report On Adolescent Well-being
The Indian government has unveiled a comprehensive report titled “Economic Case for Investment in the Well-being of Adolescents in India.” The report highlights the country’s progress in adolescent health and well-being while emphasizing the need for continued investment in this critical age group.
New Hand Transplant Registry System on NOTTO Web Portal
The National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) has announced the registration for hand transplant recipients on its web portal. OTTO has authorized hand transplant centers and hospitals to register hand transplant recipients under the “BONE” category within the tissue section.
