GUWAHATI, August 26, 2026: Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has urged the Union government to launch a comprehensive nationwide strategy to detect, prevent and address lead poisoning, describing exposure to the toxic metal as a serious public health concern with long-term consequences.
In a letter to Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J. P. Nadda on August 24, Gogoi called for stronger screening, surveillance and treatment systems, particularly in areas located near mines, industries and other potential sources of lead contamination.
The Jorhat MP highlighted estimates indicating that around 275 million children in India may have blood lead levels of at least 5 micrograms per decilitre, while approximately 64 million children are estimated to have levels above 10 micrograms per decilitre.
Gogoi said children are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure, which can affect brain development and learning. He also pointed to the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure among adults, including cardiovascular and kidney-related complications.
The Congress leader further raised concerns over possible lead contamination in food products. Referring to a study conducted across 34 cities between 2021 and 2023, he said a significant proportion of turmeric samples tested were found to contain lead beyond the permissible limit.
Gogoi also called for stricter testing and monitoring of Ayurvedic medicines to ensure that products containing unsafe levels of lead do not reach consumers.
Among his recommendations, the MP proposed regular blood lead screening at the district level, with special attention to children, pregnant women and people living in high-risk areas. He also sought improved diagnostic and treatment facilities at primary health centres and district hospitals.
He suggested specialised training for frontline healthcare workers, including ASHA and Anganwadi workers, to enable them to identify and respond to suspected cases of lead exposure at the community level.
Gogoi further proposed using District Mineral Foundation funds in mining regions to establish laboratories, procure testing equipment and conduct large-scale screening programmes.
On food safety, he urged the Centre to direct the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to carry out focused inspections for lead contamination. He also called for closer coordination between the Union Health Ministry and the Ministry of AYUSH to strengthen safety checks on traditional medicines.
Stressing that the impact of lead exposure extends beyond individual health, Gogoi said the issue could also affect education, productivity and broader social and economic outcomes.
He urged the Union government to recognise lead poisoning as a national public health priority and take stronger preventive measures to reduce exposure and prevent long-term health consequences.
