Vishanu Yudh Abhyas: India's Virus War Exercise

VISHANU YUDH ABHYAS (VIRUS WAR EXERCISE): ASSESSING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS IN INDIA

1. What is the Vishanu Yudh Abhyas?

Vishanu Yudh Abhyas, also known as ‘Virus War Exercise’, is a pioneering mock drill conducted in India to assess the nation’s readiness for pandemics. It was carried out from August 27 to August 31 in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan.

2. Under which initiative was this exercise conducted?

The exercise operated under the National One Health Mission (NOHM), which is designed to evaluate the preparedness and responsiveness of the National Joint Outbreak Response Team, integrating experts from human health, animal husbandry, and wildlife sectors.

3. What were the primary goals of the Vishanu Yudh Abhyas?

The main goals of the drill were:

• To investigate and identify the virus responsible for the mock outbreak.

• To initiate actions to control the spread of the illness among human and animal populations.

4. Who participated in this exercise?

Significant participants included the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), among other agencies.

5. What insights did the exercise provide about pandemic preparedness in India?

The drill underscored the importance of collaborative efforts across various sectors to holistically and sustainably address public health concerns. It also identified areas needing improvement to boost India’s capability to manage zoonotic disease outbreaks effectively.

6. What was the government’s response to the exercise?

Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J P Nadda lauded the exercise, emphasizing its role in promoting a coordinated and efficient approach to future pandemic threats in India.

“In the face of uncertainty, there is nothing wrong with hope.” - O. Carl Simonton.

Share: