Laboratory Network Strengthening under Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission: A Policy Review

Aim and background: The coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic revealed significant gaps in India's diagnostic and disease surveillance systems, emphasizing the importance of strengthening public health preparedness and infrastructure.In response, the Government of India (GoI) introduced the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) in 2021, with laboratory network expansion as a key component.This study compares the proposed targets and current implementation status of laboratory strengthening initiatives under PM-ABHIM, identifies key implementation gaps, and provides recommendations.Materials and methods: This study is a secondary data-based policy review of the progress made under PM-ABHIM, focusing on District Integrated Public Health Laboratories (IPHLs), Block Public Health Units (BPHUs), Biosafety level laboratories (BSL-3/4), and Metropolitan Surveillance Units (MSUs).Data were obtained from reports of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) updates, government publications, and relevant literature published between 2021 and 2025.Results: The review found that substantial progress has been made in establishing laboratory infrastructure under PM-ABHIM, but implementation remains uneven across states and program components.Delays in operationalization, shortages of trained human resources, gaps in digital integration, and disparities in rural-urban access continue to affect the effective functioning of laboratory services.Progress in the establishment of BSL laboratories and MSUs was also slower than anticipated due to administrative and infrastructural challenges.Conclusion: Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission has laid an important foundation for reinforcing India's laboratory and disease surveillance network.However, efforts toward operational readiness, workforce strengthening, and improved coordination mechanisms are essential to achieve the objectives of the mission and preparedness for future public health emergencies.