The Viral Research & Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDL) scheme was introduced by Department of Health Research - Indian Council of Medical Research as outbreaks of Viral agents is very common in India. Earlier, two National Apex Institutes: National Institute of Virology, Pune and National Centre for Disease Control, New Delhi undertook the heavy burden investigations resulting in delay of diagnosis of diseases. In order to strengthen the infrastructure for timely diagnosis of viral epidemics and continuous monitoring of existing as well as new viral strains, the Department of Health Research (DHR) planned to establish a 3-tier Viral Research & Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDLs) throughout the country. This Scheme was approved by the Cabinet Committee on June 27, 2013 for implementation during the 12th Plan Period (2013-14 to 2016-17). The geographic spread of the laboratories is ensured by establishing the labs across the country. Expenditure of 10 Regional Labs will be completely borne by the DHR while the expenditure on State Level and Medical college Level laboratories would be shared between Central and State Government in the ratio of 75:25 for the laboratories except NE and Hilly States for which the ratio will be 90:10. The cost of the land and building provided by the State Government will be reckoned towards the State share.
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Objectives of the scheme
Creating infrastructures for timely identification of viruses and other agents causing morbidity significant at public health level and specifically agents causing epidemics and/or potential agents for bioterrorism.
Developing capacity for identification of novel and unknown viruses and other organisms & emerging-reemerging viral strains and develop diagnostic kits.
Providing training to health professionals.
Undertaking research for identification of emerging and newer genetically active/ modified agents.
Evaluation of work
The various activities of the Virology Labs will be regularly monitored and guided by the Evaluation Committee, whose findings will be reported to the DHR for information/further action. The major monitorable targets/ indicators that will be used to review the various categories of Virology Lab.