Action on Omicron: Step up testing to spot new variant, says govt

The health ministry also asked states to make sure testing of international passengers is done on the first and the eighth day scrupulously

In a day of fast-paced global developments related to the Omicron variant, government authorities in India held top-level meetings to prevent a health crisis.  While it was revealed that Europe had Omicron cases before the variant was discovered in South Africa throwing markets and industry into a tizzy, India put up a brave face. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya told Parliament that the country was ready to face any eventuality. Even so, the government stepped up preparations and Indian vaccine makers indicated they were at work to fight Omicron.      

In a review meeting held by the health ministry, states