The Andaman and Nicobar Administration on March 30 inaugurated the Integrated Public Health Laboratory (IPHL) at District Hospital, Garacharma, Sri Vijaya Puram, marking a significant development in the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
The facility was inaugurated in the presence of Secretary (Health) and Mission Director of UTHM Vandana Rao, with Director of Health Services H.M. Siddaraju attending as guest of honour. Senior health officials and other stakeholders were also present during the ceremony.
The newly established IPHL is designed to strengthen diagnostic capabilities by consolidating multiple medical services under one roof. The laboratory will provide facilities for infectious disease diagnostics, haematology, clinical biochemistry, and microbiology, enabling a more streamlined approach to patient care and faster diagnosis.
Officials stated that the facility represents a key advancement in efforts to decentralize healthcare services across the islands. By improving access to advanced diagnostic testing at the district level, the administration aims to reduce dependence on external facilities and ensure timely medical intervention for patients.
Following the inauguration, Vandana Rao inspected the IPHL facility, including its laboratories and the immunization room. During the visit, a detailed briefing was presented on the scope and functioning of the laboratory. The briefing was led by Avijit Roy, NO, PM ABHIM, Directorate of Health Services, and Shahina M, Microbiologist at GB Pant Hospital, Sri Vijaya Puram.
Officials outlined the range of diagnostic tests that will be conducted at the facility and highlighted its role in strengthening public health response systems. The laboratory is expected to enhance disease surveillance and support early detection of health risks, contributing to improved healthcare outcomes in the region.
The administration indicated that the establishment of the IPHL aligns with its broader objective of bridging healthcare gaps through infrastructure development and efficient service delivery. The initiative is supported under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), which focuses on strengthening public health systems across the country.
Authorities said the new laboratory will play a critical role in preparing the islands to respond to future health challenges by improving diagnostic capacity and ensuring a coordinated healthcare response.
