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.

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.

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.

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.