Guidance Document Validation Of Rapid Diagnostics For Pathogen Identification And Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, 2025
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released a comprehensive guidance document for the validation of rapid diagnostics aimed at pathogen identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST). This document bridges existing gaps in the validation process and provides a framework for innovators and developers to ensure their diagnostic tools meet regulatory standards.
New Rules for Birth and Death Registration in Ladakh: Key Highlights
Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh introduced the Union Territory of Ladakh Registration of Births and Deaths Rules, 2025
CDSCO Sub-Zonal Office in Uttarakhand Relocates to Dehradun
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has announced the relocation of its Sub-Zonal Office in Uttarakhand. All official submissions and communications should now be directed to its new address at CDSCO, Sub-Zonal Office The Survey of India, Survey Chowk Campus Plot No. 68, 17 EC Road Dehradun-248001 Uttarakhand.
National Workshop Focuses on Combating India’s Rising NCD Burden
The Union Health Secretary emphasized the need for inter-sectoral collaboration, enhanced research, and innovative practices to combat the growing NCD burden. The importance of community-level initiatives like Fit India and Eat Right India was highlighted. Best practices from Nagaland (tobacco cessation) and Telangana (yoga and wellness) were also showcased. Programs from Assam (hypertension control), Tamil Nadu (NCD screenings), and Andhra Pradesh (cancer care) were presented as successful models for other states.
New Guidelines in Assam: No ETP Required for Non-Bedded Healthcare Facilities
Non-bedded healthcare facilities, which include establishments like clinics and dental centers, are not required to install Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs).
Govt of Chhattisgarh Declared “Controlled Area” for Equine Animals to Combat Glanders Disease
Govt of Chhattisgarh Declared “Controlled Area” for Equine Animals to Combat Glanders Disease
Two Cases of HMPV Detected in Karnataka, No Unusual Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Nationwide
The Union Health Ministry is actively monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. ICMR will continue to track HMPV circulation trends throughout the year. The World Health Organization (WHO) is also providing timely updates on the respiratory illness situation in China to inform ongoing monitoring and response measures.
Nurses Warned of Fraudulent Calls Regarding Registration and Tracking System
The fraudsters have been targeting nursing officers, particularly women, and threatening them with registration cancellation if they do not comply with their instructions. The INC has clarified that it does not contact nurses via phone regarding NRTS matters. Any official communication from the INC regarding NRTS is conducted exclusively through email, and only in cases where nurses are experiencing technical difficulties with the enrollment process.
ESIC Issues Notification on Revision of Pharmaceuticals Purchase Policy (PPP) Products
Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) issued an important notification regarding the revision of its Pharmaceuticals Purchase Policy (PPP)
Central Government Employees to Receive Extended Leave for Organ Donation
Central Government employees can now avail up to 42 days of Special Casual Leave for organ donation, regardless of the type of organ donated. The leave should ideally be taken in one continuous stretch, starting from the day of hospital admission. However, it can begin up to one week prior to the surgery if recommended by a government-registered medical practitioner.