Minister Shares Update in Parliament
New Delhi: The Central Government has sanctioned 165 Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDLs) across the country to strengthen disease surveillance and response systems. The information was shared in Parliament by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare.
Breakup of VRDLs Across Levels
The sanctioned VRDLs include 11 Regional Level Laboratories, 27 State Level Laboratories, and 127 at Medical Colleges. A detailed state-wise list was placed before the House in an annexure.
Expansion Under 15th Finance Commission
As part of the 15th Finance Commission period, the government has approved 42 new VRDLs across India. Officials said this step follows the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to expand diagnostic capacity and surveillance infrastructure.
Kerala’s Request for New VRDL Rejected
The Government of Kerala had requested approval for a VRDL at Konni Medical College. However, the Ministry clarified that the state already has eight sanctioned VRDLs, in addition to access to the Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) mobile Bio-Safety Level (BSL)-3 laboratories, which can be deployed flexibly. Therefore, the proposal for an additional fixed VRDL in Kerala is not under consideration.
Questions Raised in Rajya Sabha
During the Rajya Sabha session, Shri Sandosh Kumar P. sought details on:
- The number of operational VRDLs in the country,
- Government’s plans to establish more such labs,
- Kerala’s request for a VRDL at Konni Medical College,
- And whether the proposal would be accepted.
In reply, the Health Ministry reiterated the total 165 sanctioned VRDLs and clarified the government’s stand on Kerala’s demand.
