𝐏𝐌 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐢 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐭 𝐖𝐇𝐀

New Delhi, May 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 78th session of the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva via video message on Tuesday, reaffirming India’s dedication to building inclusive and equitable global healthcare systems.

Referring to the WHA’s theme, ‘One World for Health’, Modi said it aligns with India’s long-standing philosophy of ‘One Earth, One Health’, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, collaboration, and a unified approach to ensure a healthier future for all. “The future of global health lies in caring for the most vulnerable,” he said.

He spotlighted Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest public health insurance program, which now benefits over 580 million people and includes free treatment for citizens aged 70 and above. He also praised India’s expanding network of health and wellness centres for early disease detection and thousands of affordable public pharmacies supplying quality medicines.

Discussing digital innovation in healthcare, the Prime Minister detailed India’s integrated tech platforms that monitor vaccinations and offer a unique digital health ID linking patient records and services. He noted that more than 340 million teleconsultations have occurred via India’s free telemedicine service—proving that “no one is too far from a doctor.”

Modi also pointed out a drop in out-of-pocket expenses and a rise in government health spending in India, reflecting a stronger public health system.

He reiterated India’s willingness to share practical, scalable health solutions—particularly with the Global South, which faces uneven health burdens. “India’s models can be adapted around the world,” he said.

Ahead of the 11th International Day of Yoga in June, PM Modi invited global participation in this year’s celebration under the theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’, calling Yoga a gift from India to the world.

He also congratulated the WHO and its member states on concluding the INB treaty, calling it a crucial step in enhancing collective preparedness for future pandemics.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister invoked an ancient Vedic prayer for universal well-being, encouraging global unity in building a world free of disease.