New Delhi : Dr. Mandaviya, the Union Health Minister, addressed the 76th session of the World Health Organization Regional Committee for South-East Asia. The session, which saw Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, participate virtually, also elected Dr. Mandaviya as the Chairperson of the 76th regional committee.
In his address, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized India’s commitment to a comprehensive and inclusive healthcare approach, aligned with the vision of Universal Health Coverage. He stressed India’s dedication to “leave no one behind” in its pursuit of healthcare for all.
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the remarkable success of Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWC), which have welcomed over 2.1 billion visitors as of October 24, 2023. These centers have provided free drugs over 1.83 billion times and diagnostic services over 873 million times. Additionally, they have conducted 26 million wellness sessions, engaging more than 306 million people.
The Union Health Minister also lauded the transformative impact of initiatives such as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and PM-ABHIM in strengthening the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
He stated that the focus on primary health centers through AB-HWC, which follows a synergistic approach, will lead to significantly improved health outcomes and reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. India aims to set an example for other nations engaged in healthcare sector reforms.
Dr. Mandaviya also participated in a tree plantation ceremony at the WHO SEARO Building site in New Delhi, highlighting the collaborative effort between India and WHO. He noted India’s contribution of Rs. 239.5 crores to support the successful completion of this project.
Sudhansh Pant, the Union Health Secretary, emphasized the establishment of the South-East Asia Regional Forum for primary health care-oriented health systems. He encouraged knowledge sharing and collaborative support among member states to strengthen primary healthcare systems.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, addressed the gathering virtually and recognized the critical role of the South-East Asia region, which hosts over a quarter of the world’s population. He commended the region’s efforts in combating tuberculosis and appreciated Dr. Mandaviya’s leadership in promoting ‘Health for All’.
Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Director of WHO SEARO, praised India’s accomplishments in operating more than 150,000 Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres and receiving awards for its Hypertension Control Initiative, which has treated over 4 million individuals.
The event also saw the presence of senior government officials and representatives from the World Health Organization.