Delhi High Court Orders Creation of National Rare Disease Fund
The Delhi High Court has made a significant ruling regarding the treatment of patients with rare diseases. Justice Prathiba M Singh directed the Central Government to establish the National Rare Disease Fund (NRDF) with an allocation of Rs. 974 Crores. This fund is intended to support the treatment of individuals suffering from rare diseases.
The court emphasized that the right to health is a fundamental part of the right to life. The disbursement of the funds will be closely monitored with mandatory monthly meetings to identify any delays. The first meeting is to be held within 30 days.
The National Rare Disease Committee, formed on May 25, 2023, will continue its work for the next five years. The fund, as recommended by the NRDC, will be allocated for the years 2024-25 and 2025-26, pending approval from the Ministry of Health. The court also stated that the fund should not lapse or be refunded due to non-utilization.
This decision came as the court addressed over 100 petitions seeking free treatment for patients with rare diseases. A detailed copy of the judgment is yet to be uploaded.
Doubts Revealed
Delhi High Court -: The Delhi High Court is a court in India that makes important legal decisions for the region of Delhi. It helps ensure that laws are followed and justice is served.
National Rare Disease Fund -: The National Rare Disease Fund is a special fund set up to help people who have rare diseases. It provides money to support their treatment and care.
Rs. 974 Crores -: Rs. 974 Crores is a large amount of money, specifically 9.74 billion Indian Rupees. This money is allocated to help patients with rare diseases.
Justice Prathiba M Singh -: Justice Prathiba M Singh is a judge at the Delhi High Court. Judges like her make important decisions about laws and people’s rights.
Right to health -: The right to health means that everyone should have access to healthcare and medical treatment. It is considered a part of the right to life, which is a basic human right.
National Rare Disease Committee -: The National Rare Disease Committee is a group of experts who will oversee the use of the fund and ensure that it helps people with rare diseases effectively.
Petitions for free treatment -: Petitions for free treatment are requests made by people asking the government to provide medical care without charging them, especially for expensive treatments for rare diseases.
