MedTech Mitra Launched To Empower Innovators in Healthcare
Acknowledging the import dependency of India’s MedTech sector, which stands at 80%, the Minister underscored the progress made through production-linked incentive schemes, investments in medical drug parks, and the implementation of the MedTech research policy and incentive scheme. The collaborative initiative of ‘MedTech Mitra’ is expected to drive indigenous development, making quality MedTech devices more affordable and reducing import dependence.
India Witnesses Reduction in Drug-Resistant TB Cases
India has scaled up the availability of molecular diagnostic facilities. This effort has resulted in an increased proportion of TB patients being screened for the presence of drug resistance. Under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), there has also been a consistent and regular supply of Anti-TB drugs to all states and union territories (UTs) throughout the year.
MOHFW Urges Vigilance Amidst Recent Surge in COVID-19 Cases and New Variant Detection
The MoHFW has provided a guide for States and UTs to strengthen their preparedness and response mechanisms, ensuring a collective and proactive approach in the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
JN.1 Subvariant of COVID-19 Detected in Kerala
The Union Ministry of Health is actively engaged in continuous communication with the State Department of Health in Kerala, closely monitoring various points of entry. As the situation unfolds, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of adherence to safety protocols and encouraging the public to remain vigilant in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
India’s Family Planning Programme Unaffected by Contraceptive Procurement Concerns
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) has categorically refuted claims suggesting failure in contraceptive procurement. The Ministry has issued a press release stating that the reports are ill-informed and provide misleading information.
Initiatives Propel Organ Donation Awareness in India
As part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, organ donation is being promoted as a “Jan Andolan” or people’s movement through social media channels. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) has launched a pledge campaign and a slogan competition on the MyGov platform to encourage public participation. Under the “Angdaan Mahotsav” initiated in July 2023, awareness programs focusing on deceased donor organ donation are being conducted nationwide.
Initiatives to Advance Mental Healthcare Nationwide
Under the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) essential mental health services are made available at the Community Health Centre (CHC) and Primary Health Centre (PHC) levels. These services encompass outpatient care, assessment, counseling, psycho-social interventions, continuing care and support for individuals with severe mental disorders, drug provisions, outreach services, ambulance services, and a 10-bedded in-patient facility at the district level.
Empowering Transgender Health Under PM-JAY
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) has issued an update on Access to Healthcare Services for Transgender Community. As per the release, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PM-JAY) has authorized a total of 761 hospital admissions, amounting to Rs. 1.12 Crores, exclusively for transgender beneficiaries.
Initiatives to Boost Medical Education and Healthcare Infrastructure in India
Several proactive measures have been undertaken to augment medical education facilities and elevate standards in the country. Key initiatives include the establishment of new medical colleges through CSS, leading to the approval of 157 new medical colleges, with 108 already operational.
World AIDS Day Commemorated in Assam
The event witnessed the release and launch of various documents, including the SANKALAK report, India HIV Estimates 2022, NACO Calendar 2024, National Communication Strategy, Laboratory Technical Guidelines on Early Infant Diagnosis, Prevention Progress Update 2022-23, and a Research Compendium.
