Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva via videoconferencing, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in addressing health challenges. In his address, he emphasized that inclusion, an integrated vision, and collaboration are crucial for a healthy world.
Modi recalled his previous address at the 2023 World Health Assembly, where he had spoken about "One Earth, One Health," and noted that this year's theme, "One World for Health," aligns with India's vision for global health. He highlighted Ayushman Bharat, the world's largest health insurance scheme, which covers 580 million people and provides free treatment.
India's extensive network of thousands of health and wellness centers facilitates early screening and detection of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. Public pharmacies across the country provide high-quality medicines at significantly lower prices. The Prime Minister also underscored India's digital initiatives, including a platform that tracks vaccination of pregnant women and children, and a unique digital health identity system that integrates benefits, insurance, records, and information.
Modi highlighted the role of telemedicine in improving health outcomes, noting that it has enabled over 340 million consultations. He also reflected on the positive impact of India's health initiatives, citing a significant decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure as a percentage of Total Health Expenditure. Government Health Expenditure has increased considerably.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the Global South is particularly impacted by health challenges and stressed that India's approach provides replicable, scalable, and sustainable models. He expressed India's willingness to share its learnings and best practices with the world, especially with the Global South. Looking ahead to the 11th International Day of Yoga in June, Modi encouraged global participation, highlighting this year's theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," and extending an invitation to all countries.
Modi extended his congratulations to the World Health Organization (WHO) and all member states on the successful negotiations of the INB treaty. He described it as a shared commitment to fighting future pandemics through greater global cooperation. Building a healthy planet while ensuring that no one is left behind was emphasized by the Prime Minister.
In conclusion, Modi invoked a timeless prayer from the Vedas, reflecting on how thousands of years ago, India's sages prayed for a world where all would be healthy, happy, and free from disease. He expressed hope that this vision would unite the world.