Indo-Pak Tensions: Health Ministry, AIIMS, Safdarjung, RML hospitals cancel leaves of all its officers, staffers

Amid escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan, the Union Health Ministry has directed a nationwide state of readiness, cancelling all staff leave at key central hospitals in the capital—AIIMS, Safdarjung, and Ram Manohar Lohia—and activating emergency protocols.

The decision followed a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda on Friday to assess the preparedness of India’s healthcare infrastructure. Officials were instructed to ensure that emergency medical systems are fully operational and capable of responding to any contingency.

“In view of the impending situation, no leave of any kind, including station leave, shall be granted to any officer, except on medical grounds, until further notice. All previously sanctioned leave stands cancelled, and those on leave are directed to report back to duty immediately,” the Health Ministry said in an official communication. Departments were asked to ensure compliance with these instructions without delay.

Subsequently, AIIMS Trauma Centre, Safdarjung Hospital, and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital issued internal circulars reinforcing the ministry’s directive. “The trauma centre is fully prepared to receive and treat patients with burns, gunshot wounds, and head, neck, spinal, and chest injuries,” read the AIIMS Trauma Centre’s order. It also referenced a recent mass casualty management mock drill, noting the facility’s readiness.

Dr Rima Dada, who oversees AIIMS Delhi’s media cell, confirmed that preparations include operational theatres, a reserve of ICU and general beds, and a contingency plan to mobilise additional medical personnel from the main AIIMS campus if needed.

At Safdarjung Hospital, Additional Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba convened an emergency meeting, directing teams to bolster stocks of medical supplies and ensure the blood bank is fully equipped. She also authorised the transfer of patients from the hospital’s New Emergency Block to the superspeciality wing if required.

During the ministry’s review, Nadda underscored the importance of coordination with state governments—particularly those bordering Pakistan—to ensure swift healthcare delivery in case of mass casualties. A 24×7 command centre has been established at the ministry to oversee real-time coordination and support to states.

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The heightened medical preparedness comes in the wake of India’s retaliatory military actions under ‘Operation Sindoor’. On Wednesday, the Indian armed forces carried out precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and mainland Pakistan. Early Thursday, India neutralised a Pakistani air defence system near Lahore, triggering a wave of cross-border shelling and drone attacks from the Pakistani side.

Pakistan’s attempts to strike military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, and elsewhere were reportedly thwarted by Indian defences late Thursday night, as hostilities continued along the Line of Control and the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

With tensions escalating and fears of broader conflict mounting, India’s healthcare apparatus has been placed on high alert to ensure rapid, coordinated medical response in case of emergency.

(With inputs from PTI)