No Specific Inputs Available Regarding Any Threat of Biological Attacks at Present: Government

In recent statements, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs assured that there are no specific threats of biological attacks currently being reported. This announcement came in response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India's Parliament. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, highlighted that while there are no immediate threats, the government is well-prepared to address any potential biological attack.

The Ministry has outlined comprehensive measures and guidelines to handle biological crises effectively. According to Rai, the government has established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to manage such emergencies. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also published detailed guidelines covering various aspects of biological disasters, including bio-warfare and bio-terrorism. These guidelines encompass the identification of biological agents, their characteristics, epidemiological indicators for disease outbreaks, and protocols for laboratory identification and management.

Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has received specialized training to respond to biological threats. This preparation is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the country can handle any emergencies involving biological agents.

While the central government has taken steps to prepare for potential biological threats, the primary responsibility for detecting and responding to such events lies with state governments. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) plays a crucial role in this area, providing support and guidance to states through a crisis management plan that was last updated in October 2023. The MoHFW also shares Model Crisis Management Plans with states and Union territories to help them develop their own response strategies.

Overall, the government’s proactive stance and detailed planning reflect its commitment to managing biological threats effectively, despite the current absence of specific threat inputs.