Health Ministry rolls out first-ever national framework for childhood diabetes care

New Delhi: In a landmark move to integrate childhood diabetes care into the public health system, the Union Health Ministry has introduced a structured and standardised national framework for the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of diabetes in children.

The framework was unveiled with the release of the Guidance Document on Diabetes Mellitus in Children. For the first time, India will have uniform protocols to address Type 1 and other forms of diabetes among those aged 0 to 18.

The Ministry said the initiative aims to ensure universal diabetes screening of all children across the country from birth to 18 years. The document outlines early detection strategies, referral pathways, insulin access, nutritional support, and training for healthcare workers at primary health centres.

Health officials noted that rising cases of pediatric diabetes and late diagnoses have made a national approach urgent. The framework is expected to improve early intervention, reduce complications, and bring childhood diabetes management under routine public health services.