Govt approves setting up of Plasma Fractionation Centre

NEW DELHI: Government on Wednesday approved setting up of Plasma Fractionation Centre at a cost of Rs 185 crore as part of the National AIDS Control Programme.

The project would be a part of the Phase III of the NACO's AIDS campaign which has a total financial estimate of Rs 250 crore, Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram today said after a Cabinet meeting.

The direct implementation of the proposal is to ensure access to Plasma derivatives to needy patients at affordable prices, Chidambaram said, adding this will also reduce dependence on imports and save foreign exchange.

Plasma is one of the components of blood and can be used for preparation of several plasma derivatives. Transfusion of plasma and administration of plasma fractionation derivatives is indicated for many medical conditions such as Hemophilia and some immunodeficiency diseases.

The Union Cabinet also approved the construction of a new multi-storeyed hospital complex, including accommodation for essential category staff for Command hospital and Command Medical Dental Centre, Pune at an estimated cost of Rs 270 crore.

The new functional hospital will be built with new facilities commensurate with the authorised bed strength of 1,047 beds for provision of comprehensive medical care to service personnel, ex-servicemen and their families.