The Indian government has announced a significant policy shift to screen all children from birth to 18 years for diabetes and provide free, lifelong treatment through the public health system. This expansion of the flagship Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) aims to address the growing burden of diabetes among younger populations.
New Framework for Childhood Diabetes
The Union health ministry released a guidance document at a national public health summit, outlining a structured national framework for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of childhood diabetes. The framework integrates community- and school-based screening with district-level care to ensure early detection and continuity of treatment.
This rollout is part of the Centre's revamp of RBSK 2.0, which adopts a lifecycle approach from birth to 18 years and expands its '4Ds' framework to include non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, along with mental health and behavioural conditions. The guidelines also highlight rising lifestyle risks, including poor diet, reduced physical activity, and increased screen exposure, and introduce digital tracking and structured follow-up systems to strengthen continuity of care.
Screening Protocol and Warning Signs
Under the new protocol, mobile health teams will screen children in schools and anganwadi centres for symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, and weight loss—the '4Ts' warning signs. Suspected cases will undergo immediate blood glucose testing and be referred to district non-communicable disease (NCD) clinics for confirmation and treatment.
The move comes amid growing concern over diabetes in younger populations. While Type 1 diabetes remains the most common form in children and requires lifelong insulin, the document notes a rise in Type 2 diabetes among adolescents, driven largely by increasing obesity and sedentary habits.
Expert Opinions on Prevention
Experts emphasize that prevention will be critical. Dr. Jugal Kishore, Director Professor and former Head of Community Medicine at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, stated, 'Obesity among children has risen sharply, and with it we are seeing more diabetes. Lifestyle changes need to begin early, especially at the school level, as habits formed in these years shape long-term health. Strengthening school-based health programmes and ensuring consistent implementation will be key.'
District Hospitals as Backbone of Care
District hospitals have been positioned as the backbone of care, offering a comprehensive free package that includes diagnostic services, lifelong insulin therapy, glucometers, test strips, and regular follow-up. The programme also includes counselling and training for families on insulin use, monitoring, and emergency care.
The framework links early detection with advanced care, with standardised treatment to prevent complications. Officials said timely diagnosis enables normal growth and better outcomes. The initiative aims to reduce mortality, ease financial burden, and ensure uninterrupted care, with focus now on implementation.
