Govt sanctions Rs 15000 cr for COVID-19 Emergency response

News: The Centre has sanctioned 15 thousand crore rupees for India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package.

Facts:

  • The funds sanctioned will be utilized for immediate COVID-19 Emergency Response (amount of Rs.7774 crores) and rest for medium-term support (1-4 years).
  • Objectives:
    • Development of diagnostics and COVID-19 dedicated treatment facilities, 
    • centralized procurement of essential medical equipment and drugs required for treatment of infected patients, 
    •  strengthen and build resilient National and State health systems to support prevention and preparedness for future disease outbreaks, 
    • setting up of laboratories and improve surveillance activities, 
    • biosecurity preparedness, 
    • pandemic research and conduct risk communication activities. 
  • Implementing Agency: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.