India Eliminates Trachoma as Public Health Problem, Recognised by WHO

In a significant global health achievement, India was awarded the Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem by the World Health Organisation (WHO) at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva. This milestone reflects India’s focused healthcare strategies, robust disease control programs, and long-standing commitment to eliminating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

Why in News?

India has officially received recognition from the World Health Organisation for successfully eliminating trachoma, a leading cause of preventable blindness. The announcement was made on May 19, 2025, during the inauguration of the 78th World Health Assembly. This recognition validates India’s sustained efforts in public health and its broader commitment to global health cooperation.

What is Trachoma?

• Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.
• It is a leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
• It spreads through contact with eye or nasal discharge of infected individuals, or through flies.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

• WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus presented the certificate.
• India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) led the disease elimination efforts.
• The Indian delegation at WHA is headed by Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary, MoHFW.

About the 78th World Health Assembly

• Held from May 19 to 27, 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
• Theme: “One World for Health”.

Key sessions include,

• Pandemic Agreement negotiations
• Programme Budget 2026–2027 discussions
• Public Health Awards presentation (May 23)
• Ministerial Roundtable on Sustainable Financing (May 21)
• Teodoro Javier Herbosa of the Philippines elected as WHA President.

India’s Measures to Eliminate Trachoma

• Mass drug administration campaigns.
• Promotion of facial cleanliness and environmental improvement (SAFE strategy).
• Strong inter-ministerial coordination.
• Community awareness and hygiene campaigns in vulnerable regions.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India Eliminates Trachoma as Public Health Problem, Recognised by WHO
Recognising Body	World Health Organisation (WHO)
Achievement	India eliminates Trachoma as a public health problem
Event	78th World Health Assembly, Geneva
Indian Delegation Lead	Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary, MoHFW
Significance	Recognition of India’s strong public health initiatives and global role