Centre reviews availability of key medical devices ahead of third wave

Task Force recommends stockpiling 50 key devices like ventilators, syringes, ICU beds, oxygen tubes etc

A taskforce formed by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has recommended that India stockpiles at least 50 key medical devices like ventilators, syringes, ICU beds, oxygen tubes etc ahead of an expected third wave.

The Health Ministry is handling this process of procurement and distribution, informed a senior government official. The health secretary could not be reached for a comment on the matter.

The DoP, which comes under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, had formed a task force around June comprised of industry bodies and manufacturing companies. It was mandated to look into third wave preparedness as far as