Introduction to the ICMR Study
Palliative Care – The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) invites expressions of interest (EOI) for its multistate implementation research study aimed at enhancing the coverage of high-quality palliative care interventions. This initiative is crucial, especially considering the growing demand for palliative care in the face of rising noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and an aging population. The deadline for submissions is set for May 28, 2026, at 17:00 hours.
The Importance of Palliative Care
Palliative care is an integral part of universal health coverage, crucial for addressing various illnesses that require serious management such as cancer and neurological disorders. As per global statistics, about 56.8 million people need palliative care annually, with a significant number in low- and middle-income countries, including India. Evidence suggests that 6.21 per 1,000 individuals in India require such care, with particularly high demands noted in rural regions where the rate rises to 7.69 per 1,000.
Addressing the Gap in Palliative Care
Despite the evident need, less than 1% of patients in India currently receive palliative care services. The World Health Organization projects an 87% increase in serious health-related suffering by 2060, emphasizing the need for effective service delivery models. The ICMR’s initiative aims to bridge this gap through community-based strategies and strategic actions that integrate palliative care into the mainstream health system.
For more detailed information about the study and how to participate, please visit the official ICMR website here.