Question : Testing for COVID-19

(a) whether the testing for COVID-19 remains a key strategy for pandemic management as it helps in identification of new clusters and new hotspots of infection;
(b) if so, whether testing enables the system for taking immediate action like setting up of containment zones, contact tracing, quarantining, isolation and follow up;
(c) if so, whether the Government is aware that many States/UTs have reduced the number of COVID-19 tests;
(d) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons therefor; and
(e) the measures taken by the Union Government for ensuring adherence to all advisories of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) by all States/UTs on testing for early detection of cases for quick isolation and care?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE
(DR BHARATI PRAVIN PAWAR)

(a) to (e): Testing is an important element of fivefold strategy of ‘Test-Track-Treat-Vaccinate and adherence to COVID-19 appropriate behaviour’ is followed by Ministry of Health for Covid-19 management. It allows for detection, quarantining of contacts and rapid isolation of cases so as to minimize infection spread and also aids in early identification of cases allowing for timely treatment & minimize preventable mortality. Additionally, genomic sequencing of positive samples from rapidly developing community clusters & International travellers helps in detecting mutant variants of the virus.
The COVID-19 testing rates and testing confirmation rates are routinely monitored up to the district level. States reporting a declining quantum of testing are urged through formal communication and during review meetings to ramp up their testing infrastructure and rate of testing. States are advised to strengthen COVID-19 testing infrastructure and ensure early identification of cases through adequate testing. States are requested to closely monitor areas where cluster of positive cases emerge and representative testing of positive samples through genome sequencing (through INSACOG network of laboratories) in a prompt manner. States are also provided with financial assistance under ECRP Phase II to enhance testing capacity in underserved areas.