How is India Assisting Indonesia with Cs-137 Contamination?

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How is India Assisting Indonesia with Cs-137 Contamination?

Synopsis

In a remarkable display of international solidarity, India has stepped in to assist Indonesia in managing the Cs-137 contamination crisis by delivering essential medical supplies. This act not only underscores India's commitment to regional cooperation but also highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing global health emergencies.

Key Takeaways

  • India delivered Prussian Blue capsules to Indonesia for radiation exposure mitigation.
  • The action showcases India's commitment to regional cooperation in health crises.
  • Collaboration in traditional medicine is being strengthened through an MoU.
  • The WHO–IRCH meeting facilitates global regulatory harmonization.
  • India's involvement underscores the importance of international health partnerships.

Jakarta, Oct 15 (NationPress) Strengthening its dedication to regional collaboration, India acted promptly as a first responder by sending Prussian Blue (Radiogardase) capsules to Jakarta, aiding in the containment of Cesium-137 (Cs-137) contamination in the Southeast Asian nation.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that a shipment with vital medications aimed at reducing radiation exposure due to a recent incident has been delivered to Indonesia.

In response to a request from the Indonesian Ministry of Health, the Indian Embassy in Jakarta, in collaboration with the MEA, quickly mobilized the necessary capsules.

Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, presented the medications to officials from the Indonesian Ministry of Health.

"The provision of Prussian Blue Capsules will bolster Indonesia's efforts to address potential nuclear or radiological emergencies, particularly contamination involving Cesium-137," announced the Indian Embassy in Jakarta via X.

Additionally, an Indian delegation led by Raghu Arackal, Advisor (Ayurveda) and Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Ayush, alongside Raman Mohan Singh, Director at the Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy (PCIM&H), is currently in Jakarta for the 16th Annual Meeting of the World Health OrganisationInternational Regulatory Cooperation for Herbal Medicines (WHO–IRCH), taking place from October 14 to 16.

The delegation successfully met with the Indian Ambassador upon arrival, discussing ways to enhance collaboration in traditional medicine, in line with the recently signed MoU on Cooperation in the Field of Traditional Medicine Quality Assurance between the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (FDA) and PCIM&H, Ministry of Ayush.

A meeting between the delegation and the Indonesian FDA (BPOM) was also organized by the Indian Embassy in Jakarta. The discussions centered around advancing activities under this MoU, including capacity building, sharing of technical expertise, and standardizing quality assurance practices for traditional medicines.

The 16th Annual Meeting of the WHO–IRCH in Jakarta gathers global regulatory bodies and experts to enhance international cooperation and standardization in the regulation of herbal medicines.

The delegation played a significant role in the technical sessions on the second day of the event.

Raghu Arackal presented the Workshop Report on 'Efficacy and Intended Use of Herbal Medicines (Working Group-3)', showcasing India's advancing regulatory framework and evidence-based initiatives in traditional medicine.

India's involvement underscores its ongoing commitment to fostering international cooperation and elevating global standards in the realm of herbal medicine regulation.

Point of View

It is vital to note that India's proactive approach in assisting Indonesia during this contamination incident highlights a broader commitment to global health partnerships. Such collaboration is essential in addressing urgent health crises and sets a precedent for future international cooperation in medicine and safety.
NationPress
15/10/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Prussian Blue capsules?
Prussian Blue capsules are essential for treating radiation exposure, particularly from Cesium-137 contamination, by helping the body eliminate radioactive substances.
How did India respond to Indonesia's request?
India mobilized rapidly, coordinating through its Embassy in Jakarta and the Ministry of External Affairs to deliver the necessary medical supplies.
What is the purpose of the WHO–IRCH meeting?
The WHO–IRCH meeting aims to enhance international cooperation and harmonization in the regulation of herbal medicines, promoting global health standards.
Who is leading the Indian delegation in Jakarta?
The Indian delegation is led by Raghu Arackal, Advisor (Ayurveda) and Deputy Director General at the Ministry of Ayush.
What does the MoU signed between India and Indonesia entail?
The MoU focuses on cooperation in traditional medicine quality assurance, including capacity building and technical expertise exchange.
Nation Press