The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has been formally designated as a World Health Organization (WHO) network site for pandemic preparedness, marking a significant advancement in India’s contribution to global health security. This strategic recognition places AIIMS Delhi among a distinguished group of institutions worldwide selected to strengthen global systems for the detection, prevention, and management of future pandemics.

Under this designation, AIIMS will collaborate closely with WHO and global health partners to enhance pathogen surveillance, diagnostic standardization, rapid response mechanisms, and cross-country knowledge exchange. The institute will also serve as a central hub for capacity building, training programs, scientific research, and development of evidence-based public health strategies to mitigate pandemic risks.

Speaking on the development, senior health officials highlighted that this recognition underscores AIIMS Delhi’s leadership in infectious disease management, epidemiology, and critical care. The institute has played a crucial role in shaping India’s response to major health emergencies, including COVID-19, H1N1 influenza, and multiple outbreaks of viral and bacterial infections.

As part of the WHO network, AIIMS Delhi will advance national efforts aligned with India’s Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (PHPR) framework, supporting initiatives in genomic surveillance, laboratory strengthening, and high-risk pathogen research. The collaboration is expected to reinforce India’s position as a key contributor to global pandemic readiness.

“This partnership will enable faster data sharing, coordinated outbreak response, and greater scientific cooperation at the international level. AIIMS Delhi’s designation as a WHO network site marks a major step forward in building resilient and future-ready health systems,” officials noted.

The initiative will also help accelerate training and resource development for healthcare professionals across India and the region, ensuring rapid mobilization and effective preparedness for emerging public health threats.

With this milestone, AIIMS Delhi reaffirms its mission to promote scientific excellence, support global health collaboration, and strengthen frameworks that protect populations from future pandemics.