₹30 crore project to be operational within 18 months
In a major step towards strengthening virus research and diagnostics in Himachal Pradesh, a state-of-the-art Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) will soon be established at AIIMS-Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh.
Union Health Minister and BJP president JP Nadda, who belongs to Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh, laid the foundation stone for the facility, marking a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
The proposed 1,279 square metre lab will be set up at an estimated cost of ₹30 crore and is expected to be operational within 18 months.
This will be the 11th regional-level VRDL in the country and the 165th such lab nationwide, further strengthening India’s capacity for virus surveillance and epidemic control.
Enhanced diagnostic capabilities in Himachal
Previously, virus samples from the state had to be sent to Pune for testing, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
With the new VRDL at AIIMS-Bilaspur, testing can now be conducted within the state, ensuring faster detection, research and response to viral outbreaks.
The lab’s primary goal will be to identify and control infectious diseases through advanced research and diagnostics.
The facility will specialise in genomic sequencing and viral diagnostics, including RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing, which plays a crucial role in detecting viral structures at a genetic level.
This will expedite the identification of new viruses and enhance preparedness for future pandemics.
Focus on infectious diseases, vaccine development
The VRDL at AIIMS-Bilaspur will be equipped to test for various virus-borne diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, swine flu, and COVID-19.
In addition to diagnostics, the lab will conduct research on emerging viral infections and assist in developing vaccines and antiviral drugs.
By monitoring outbreak patterns and studying infection rates, the lab will help government health agencies formulate effective public health policies.
The cutting-edge research conducted at VRDL will be instrumental in the development of new treatment methods and preventive strategies, ensuring better pandemic preparedness for the future.
Major boost to healthcare in the region
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony, Union Health Minister JP Nadda emphasised that this facility would play a pivotal role in protecting public health.
“With AIIMS-Bilaspur now having a regional-level VRDL, Himachal Pradesh will no longer be dependent on external laboratories for virus testing. This will ensure faster and more efficient virus detection, aiding in better disease control and management,” he said.
The establishment of this world-class virus research laboratory is expected to transform Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare landscape, making it a hub for cutting-edge virology research and diagnostics.
Sunil Chadha
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