Question : Popularisation of AYUSH and Yoga

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government proposes to take any measures to prevent the spread of epidemics like Chikungunya and H1N1 in Kerala particularly during monsoon season;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government has taken any measures to monitor the possible threat from migratory birds which causes easy deadly virus transfer in some cases;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) whether the Government would likely to take any measures to ensure efficient waste management in States like Kerala in view of huge health hazards due to inefficient waste management especially during monsoon season?

ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI ASHWINI KUMAR CHOUBEY)
(a) and (b): Public Health is a State subject. Government of India (GoI), however, provides necessary assistance and guidance to State Governments for strengthening their healthcare system. Measures taken by GoI during 2019 to prevent Chikungunya and H1N1 in the country, including in Kerala, particularly during monsoon season are at Annexure – I.

(c) and (d): India has launched the National Action Plan (NAP) for Conservation of Migratory Birds and their Habitats along Central Asian Flyway (2018-2023). Building capacity and protocols for disease surveillance in wild birds is one of the activities under the Capacity Development of the Action Plan. Six regional committees have also been formed for implementing the NAP. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme, funds are provided to the concerned State Governments to procure the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the Avian Influenza (H5N1) disease surveillance.

(e): The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in supersession of Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000, has notified the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. A detailed note is at Annexure – II.