Madhya Pradesh hosted a large-scale national mock drill, Vishanu Sankraman Pratirodh Abhyas, in Khandwa district from November 2–5 under the National One Health Mission (NOHM) to strengthen India’s pandemic preparedness. Led by the National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT), the exercise simulated a Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever outbreak affecting both humans and animals, testing rapid investigation, pathogen detection, and containment measures.
The drill brought together key agencies, including the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor, NCDC, ICMR and NIV Pune, DGHS, DAHD, MoEF&CC, ICAR and NIHSAD Bhopal, along with the Madhya Pradesh state administration, State IDSP, veterinary and forest departments, and AIIMS Bhopal’s BSL-3 lab. Experts from human health, animal health, and wildlife sectors worked jointly throughout the simulation. Independent NOHM observers noted timely responses and effective coordination, while also outlining areas that need improvement.
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Shri J.P. Nadda lauded the successful execution of the drill, stating, “Vishanu Sankraman Pratirodh Abhyas’ has shown us that with preparedness, collaboration, and a One Health approach, we can effectively respond to pandemics.” He emphasized the need for continued synergy among all stakeholders to safeguard Bharat and the world from infectious disease threats. This marks the second such mock drill under NOHM, following the earlier Avian Influenza simulation in Rajasthan, reinforcing India’s commitment to proactive and integrated health security.
