Punjab to Establish National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Branch in Amritsar
Chandigarh, February 24
In a significant step towards bolstering public health infrastructure, the Punjab Health and Family Welfare Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), New Delhi , to establish a state branch at the Community Health Centre (CHC) Manawala in Amritsar district .
The MoU was signed by Principal Secretary Health, Kumar Rahul , and Dr. Amarjeet Kaur , Senior Regional Director, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (Government of India), in the presence of Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh at Punjab Bhawan on Monday.
A Major Boost to Disease Surveillance and Public Health
Sharing details about the initiative, Dr. Balbir Singh stated that the collaboration will bring essential disease control expertise directly to Punjab, aligning with the ‘Sehat Kranti’ vision championed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann .
Highlighting the growing need for robust healthcare systems, Dr. Balbir Singh emphasized that rising populations, coupled with emerging and re-emerging communicable and infectious diseases, necessitate the strengthening of public health infrastructure. “The primary objective is to enhance our disease surveillance system , improve outbreak investigation capabilities , and ensure a rapid response to contain outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea,” he explained.
This initiative is particularly crucial in light of lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic , which underscored the importance of preparedness for future health crises. The collaboration aims to strengthen Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) activities, enhance disaster preparedness, and build capacity for swift responses to outbreaks.
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Key Features of the NCDC Punjab Centre
The upcoming NCDC Punjab branch will play a pivotal role in supporting the state’s healthcare system by:
- Providing logistical support for the storage and distribution of diagnostic kits, drugs, vaccines, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Conducting capacity-building programs for health personnel to tackle public health challenges effectively.
- Strengthening disease surveillance and improving coordination between state and national health agencies.
Dr. Balbir Singh noted that this partnership will significantly contribute to the vision of creating a healthier and more vibrant Punjab, or ‘Rangla Punjab’ , by ensuring better disease control and improved public health outcomes.
Significance of the Collaboration
The establishment of the NCDC branch in Punjab marks a vital step in preparing the state for future health emergencies. By integrating advanced disease surveillance mechanisms and enhancing rapid response capabilities, Punjab aims to lead by example in public health management.
The event also saw the presence of key officials, including Director Health and Family Welfare Dr. Hitinder Kaur , Director Family Welfare Dr. Jasminder , Deputy Director Dr. Rohini , and State Program Officer (IDSP) Dr. Manmeet Kaur Chahal , who reiterated their commitment to advancing Punjab’s healthcare initiatives.
With this landmark collaboration, Punjab takes a decisive stride toward building a resilient and future-ready public health framework, ensuring the well-being of its citizens and setting new benchmarks in disease control and healthcare delivery.
