Indian Council of Medical Research Expands Viral Research and Diagnosis Laboratories Scheme
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced an expansion of its Viral Research and Diagnosis Laboratories (VRDL) Scheme, inviting medical colleges, hospitals, and research institutions across India to establish Medical College & Research Institute Level Viral Research and Diagnosis Laboratories (MCL-VRDLs). This initiative aims to bolster India's laboratory infrastructure for the early detection, diagnosis, surveillance, outbreak investigation, and research of infectious viral pathogens. The scheme provides significant non-recurring financial assistance, offering up to Rs. 1.55 crore per institution. This funding is allocated for civil work and infrastructure modification (Rs. 66.8 lakh) and for the procurement of essential laboratory equipment (Rs. 88.2 lakh). The VRDL Scheme is designed to create a three-tier, quality-assured laboratory network, enhancing advanced diagnostic capabilities and improving geographical access to infectious disease testing, particularly in endemic, remote, and ...