MoHFW Unveils Specialized Training Modules for Chemical Emergency Management
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) launched three specialized training modules on Public Health Management of Chemical Emergencies, developed by NCDC in collaboration with NDMA and WHO India. These modules provide a comprehensive national framework covering preparedness, early detection, pre-hospital care, and medical management to strengthen India's chemical emergency response capacity and align with International Health Regulations (2005).
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced three key training modules designed to enhance India's public health response to chemical emergencies. Developed by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in partnership with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and with technical support from WHO India, the modules address the entire spectrum of chemical emergency management. Module 1 focuses on preparedness, surveillance, and response for chemical emergencies. Module 2 covers pre-hospital management, including hazard identification, patient triage, decontamination, and use of personal protective equipment. Module 3 details medical management within healthcare facilities, focusing on patient triage, hospital decontamination, and care protocols. These modules aim to establish standardized operational practices, enhance institutional readiness, and build frontline health worker capacity nationally. Chemical emergencies—including leaks, spills, and toxic exposures—are increasing in frequency due to industrialization, urbanization, and climate factors, posing significant public health threats. By strengthening chemical emergency preparedness, the initiative supports compliance with International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), thereby contributing to both national and global health security. The modules were launched at Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi, and reflect India's commitment to developing a resilient healthcare response system capable of minimizing health impacts and protecting lives amid escalating environmental and industrial risks.
