Parliament Question: Health advisory regarding recent cold Wave and dense fog conditions in Delhi

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 457 TO BE ANSWERED ON 03.02.2026 HEALTH ADVISORY REGARDING RECENT COLD WAVE AND DENSE FOG CONDITIONS IN DELHI 457 SHRI I.S. INBADURAI : Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is aware of recent cold wave and dense fog causing record low temperatures and health risks in Delhi/North India; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any targeted advisories are being disseminated for elderly and vulnerable groups regarding this persistent cold wave and pollution combined health impacts, if so, the details thereof; (d) whether Government plans enhanced public health messaging linking severe cold, fog and respiratory/cardiac risks observed recently; (e) if so, the details thereof, if not, the reasons therefor; (f) whether steps are being taken to strengthen primary healthcare response to cold wave health challenges amid ongoing sub-normal temperatures; and (g) if so, the details thereof, if not, the reasons therefor? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI PRATAPRAO JADHAV) (a) to (g): Keeping in view of cold wave and dense fog situation, the Government disseminates public health advisories on cold waves and frost before the peak winter season in cold wave- prone regions including Delhi. These advisories aim to inform the general public, including vulnerable groups, about preventive measures and safety guidelines and the link of the advisory is as below https://ncdc.mohfw.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1-PUBLIC-HEALTH-ADVISORY- COLD-WAVE-FROST.pdf State Health Departments in affected regions are responsible for translating, updating, and distributing these advisories through audio, visual, and print media to ensure widespread awareness. For effective seasonal preparedness, State Health Departments are advised to align their strategies with the National Guidelines for Preparation of Action Plan – Prevention and Management of Cold Wave and Frost, issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Public Health is a State subject and the responsibility of strengthening public healthcare system lies with the respective State/ Union Territory Governments. Under National Health Mission (NHM), the Ministry provides technical and financial support to States/ Union Territory for strengthening their healthcare systems based on the proposals submitted by them in their Program Implementation Plans subject to norms & availability of resources. *****