Photo Credit: India Today
As India witnesses a steady uptick in COVID-19 cases, the Prime Minister’s Office has introduced a new protocol: ministers and senior officials meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi must now present a negative RT-PCR test. This precautionary measure comes ahead of a high-level dinner in Delhi where around 70 BJP leaders, including MPs, MLAs, and Delhi’s Chief Minister, are scheduled to meet the Prime Minister.
According to sources, all invitees have been instructed to undergo COVID testing in advance. The decision reflects growing concern over the recent surge in infections and the appearance of new, fast-spreading Omicron subvariants like JN.1 and LF.7. Although symptoms remain largely mild for most, health experts have warned that these variants are more transmissible and could spread rapidly among unvaccinated or vulnerable groups.
India recorded 306 fresh COVID-19 cases and six deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of active cases to 7,121. Kerala currently leads with 2,223 cases, followed by Gujarat with 1,223, Delhi with 757, and Karnataka with 459. The increasing numbers have prompted central and state authorities to revisit precautionary measures and activate dormant COVID protocols.
Government insiders reveal that this reintroduction of mandatory RT-PCR tests is reminiscent of protocols followed during the height of the pandemic. Ministers attending today’s Cabinet meeting were reportedly tested in advance, and similar procedures could soon be extended to other official engagements, including public rallies and policy briefings where the Prime Minister is present.
In parallel, the Ministry of Health has instructed hospitals across India to conduct mock drills to assess infrastructure preparedness. These exercises include checking the availability of oxygen cylinders, ICU beds, and essential medication. Officials have also been tasked with monitoring the spread of new variants and reviewing containment strategies where needed.
The move to mandate testing for top-level interactions serves as a stark reminder that COVID-19, while currently manageable, has not disappeared. It also subtly signals the potential return of broader precautions in public spaces if cases continue to rise. Although mask mandates and lockdowns are not currently being considered, citizens are being encouraged to maintain personal hygiene and avoid crowded indoor gatherings.
While the broader impact of this mini-surge remains uncertain, the government’s decision to tighten health protocols at the highest level demonstrates its commitment to prevention. The return of testing ahead of meetings with the Prime Minister might appear symbolic, but it underscores the critical balance India must maintain between normalcy and caution.
This development also comes as a wake-up call for the public. COVID fatigue may have set in, but the virus continues to evolve. With a potential third wave far from certain, India’s best strategy lies in swift testing, real-time tracking, and public cooperation—starting at the top.
