The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has written to all the States and the Union Territories, suggesting that the upper ceiling of ₹4,500 for the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test be removed so that they can negotiate with the approved laboratories and introduce cheaper tests. The ICMR said the option was being given now as the “testing supplies situation has stabilised with greater local procurement”.
“The earlier suggested upper ceiling of ₹4,500, vide letter dated March 17, may not be applicable now and, therefore, all State governments/Union Territory administrations are advised to negotiate with private labs and fix a mutual agreeable price for samples being sent by the government for private individuals desirous of testing…,” it said.
Interactive map of confirmed coronavirus cases in India | State-wise tracker for coronavirus cases, deaths and testing rates
The Health Ministry has said critical services for women, children and adolescents should be provided irrespective of their COVID-19 status and under no circumstances should they be denied essential services.
It has said India has more than 2.5 crore pregnancies every year, besides the largest adolescent a