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WHO Adopts First Global Pandemic Treaty with India Championing Equity

India highlights its health reforms and calls for equitable pandemic response at the 78th World Health Assembly.

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava at the 78th World Health Assembly | X@MoHFW_INDIA
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday. (DPR PMO)
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Overview

  • The WHO Pandemic Agreement, adopted by consensus at WHA-78, establishes a framework for equitable access to pandemic tools and preparedness.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's inclusive health reforms, including the Ayushman Bharat scheme covering 580 million people and expanded to seniors over 70.
  • India showcased its digital health initiatives, such as unique health IDs and a telemedicine platform facilitating over 340 million consultations.
  • Union Health Secretary Srivastava reaffirmed India's commitment to global health equity, urging fair access to countermeasures for the Global South.
  • WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus praised India's leadership and support for the Pandemic Agreement, aligning with the 'One World for Health' vision.