Union Health Minister JP Nadda presided over a high-level review meeting on Friday to evaluate national medical preparedness in the wake of rising India-Pakistan tensions. The review was aimed at ensuring that hospitals and health centers in the country are adequately prepared to deal with any increase in casualties or emergencies due to the current conflict.
Some of the key steps debated were the conservation of vital stocks of medicines, blood, and critical care commodities in all key hospitals, particularly along the borders. Medical teams on rapid response have been stood down, and leave for doctors, paramedics, and health workers has been withdrawn in some states to facilitate maximum availability of medical personnel.
Coordination systems between central and state health bodies have been upgraded, and direct communication channels opened to enable quick mobilization of resources.
The Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) has also called on people to take part in blood donation campaigns to benefit both armed forces and civilians in these times.
Emergency procedures such as evacuation exercises and disaster relief planning are in place across the country to maintain preparedness for any situation.
In total, the government is making concerted efforts to strengthen the health system's capacity to respond quickly and effectively in case of further escalation along the border.
