Union Health Minister JP Nadda inaugurated the 2nd National Workshop on Health Sector Disaster Preparedness and Response and Fire Safety in Healthcare Facilities at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The workshop, organized by the Disaster Management Cell of the Ministry of Health, marked the conclusion of ‘Fire Safety Week’ (April 21–25), conducted in collaboration with Disaster Nodal Officers across States and Union Territories.
During his address, Nadda emphasized the Health Ministry’s ongoing commitment to improving disaster preparedness and fire safety within healthcare institutions. He noted the regular issuance of guidelines and checklists to states and UTs, underscoring the need for continuous improvement. “We must ensure our health infrastructure is disaster- and fire-resilient,” he said, stressing the importance of holding such workshops regularly to strengthen readiness.
He highlighted the necessity of preventive measures to maintain uninterrupted and quality healthcare services. Nadda acknowledged the risks involved in handling high-powered medical equipment and inflammable substances like oxygen and chemicals, advocating for greater awareness and preparedness at all levels from senior officials to grassroots health workers and paramedics.
Nadda also pointed out Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on conducting routine fire safety audits to prevent disasters before they occur. He warned against complacency, stating that insensitivity towards safety can lead to negligence and major hazards.
Commending the proactive participation of states and UTs during Fire Safety Week, the Minister called for collective efforts in capacity-building across all healthcare levels including government and private hospitals, primary health centers, nursing homes, maternity facilities, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and preventive care institutions.
He expressed hope that the two-day workshop would produce actionable recommendations to enhance the resilience and disaster responsiveness of health facilities not just against fires but through a comprehensive, all-hazard approach.
Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava also addressed the gathering, calling for a cultural shift toward proactive fire prevention and full-scale disaster preparedness beyond mere compliance. She noted the pivotal role of hospitals during crises and emphasized the need for robust hospital disaster management plans, especially given the rising fire risks during summer.
The event also saw the launch of an iGOT online course on Fire Safety in Healthcare Facilities. Best-performing states and UTs from Fire Safety Week were recognized. Among the attendees were senior officials from the NDMA, AIIMS, WHO, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, and other key institutions.
