India Reaffirms Global Health Commitment at 78th World Health Assembly

At the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, held on May 21, 2025, India strongly reaffirmed its commitment to global health equity and universal health coverage. Addressing the plenary, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava highlighted India’s flagship initiatives, including Ayushman Bharat, and underscored the country’s role in advancing equitable healthcare, improving maternal and child health, and eliminating communicable diseases.

Why in News?

India’s participation in the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) is significant in the context of global health diplomacy. It not only showcased India’s domestic healthcare advancements but also stressed the need for a fair and binding global pandemic agreement. The emphasis on equitable access, technology sharing, and health sovereignty positions India as a strong voice for developing nations in shaping global health policies.

Key Highlights

Flagship Initiative – Ayushman Bharat

• Provided comprehensive healthcare access.
• Improved health infrastructure.
• Offered financial protection for expensive treatments.
• Accelerated digital health adoption (e.g., ABHA, Telemedicine).

Recognition by Global Bodies

India’s progress in maternal health, family planning, and reduction in childhood mortality has been recognized by,

• United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
• UN Inter-Agency Group

Disease Elimination Commitment

• India certified Trachoma-Free by WHO.

Ongoing efforts to eliminate,

• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Leprosy
• Lymphatic Filariasis
• Measles and Rubella
• Kala-azar

Call for Equitable Pandemic Agreement

India supports a legally binding global agreement for future pandemics that,

• Ensures equitable access to vaccines and medicines.
• Encourages transparent data and pathogen sharing.
• Promotes technology transfer and capacity building, especially for Global South.
• Respects national sovereignty and individual health capacities.