Govt allocates Rs 1660 cr for prevention of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases in 11th Plan

A comprehensive strategy of action plan is being put in place in respect of non-communicable diseases by the government during the 11th Plan. A sum of Rs 1660.50 crore has been allotted under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPDCS) for the plan period.

According to health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, the action plan is also covering diabetes and is being focused for early detection and appropriate management of the diseases. On a pilot basis, the NPDCS has been initiated in 10 districts in 10 states. 

"Exact number of diabetics in India is not known. The estimates are based on various epidemiological studies. The Government has not conducted any nationwide survey to find out number of diabetics in the country. WHO estimates suggest that there were 32 million diabetics in India in 2004 and it is projected that India would have largest number of diabetics (80 million) in the world by 2030," the minister said in a reply.