New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday underscored India’s commitment to global health, stating that the country’s inclusive and technology-driven approach offers scalable and sustainable solutions to address the health challenges of the Global South.
Delivering a video message at the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, PM Modi aligned India’s vision with this year’s theme, “One World for Health,” which he said mirrors India’s philosophy of “One Earth, One Health.”
India’s Inclusive Health Model
Modi emphasized that inclusion is central to India’s healthcare reforms. He highlighted Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance program, which covers over 580 million people and provides free medical treatment. The scheme was recently extended to include all citizens aged 70 and above.
He also pointed to India’s vast network of health and wellness centres across the country that facilitate early screening and detection of major diseases like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.
Additionally, he spotlighted Jan Aushadhi Kendras — public pharmacies that deliver affordable, high-quality medicines — as another critical component of India’s healthcare strategy.
Technology-Driven Healthcare
Highlighting the transformative role of technology, Modi spoke about India’s digital health initiatives, including:
• A digital vaccination tracking platform for pregnant women and children.
• A unique digital health identity system that integrates insurance, medical records, and healthcare services.
• India’s free telemedicine platform, which has facilitated over 340 million consultations, ensuring access to medical advice even in remote regions.
He noted that these digital tools have significantly reduced out-of-pocket expenses and contributed to an overall increase in government health spending.
Global Cooperation and Commitment
Modi reaffirmed India’s readiness to share its healthcare models and best practices with other nations, especially in the Global South. “The health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable,” he said.
He praised the World Health Organization (WHO) and its member states for successfully negotiating the INB (Intergovernmental Negotiating Body) treaty, calling it a significant step towards pandemic preparedness and global cooperation.
Promoting Holistic Wellbeing
Looking ahead to the 11th International Day of Yoga in June, the Prime Minister urged global participation under this year’s theme: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” He described Yoga as a gift from India to the world that promotes holistic well-being.
A Vision Rooted in Tradition
Concluding his address, Modi invoked an ancient Vedic prayer envisioning a world where all are healthy, happy, and free from disease. He expressed hope that this timeless vision would unite the world in building a healthier and more equitable future.
Sorry, there was a YouTube error.
