Government affirms readiness against potential biological attacks

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, assured the Rajya Sabha that the government is well-prepared to handle any potential biological attacks on the country.

Responding to a written question, Rai mentioned that although there are currently no specific threats of biological attacks identified by the Union Home Ministry, the government has put in place comprehensive measures to address such scenarios.

Rai outlined that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has established guidelines specifically for biological disasters, including bio-warfare and bio-terrorism. These guidelines cover the identification and characteristics of bio-warfare agents, epidemiological clues for detecting disease outbreaks, and laboratory procedures for managing such events, including prevention and treatment protocols.

Furthermore, Rai highlighted that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) battalions have been trained to respond effectively to biological crises. He noted that health, being a State subject, places the primary responsibility for detecting and managing biological events of national concern with state governments.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), serving as the nodal ministry for biological disasters, has developed a crisis management plan for such incidents. This plan, last updated in October 2023, has been disseminated to relevant stakeholders and includes guidance for outbreak investigation, laboratory diagnosis, and public health measures. The MoHFW also provides logistical support, including human and material resources, to states and Union territories as needed.

Rai emphasized that the government remains vigilant and is fully equipped to handle any biological threats that may arise, ensuring the safety and health of the nation's citizens.