‘One World for Health’ Reflects India’s Vision for Global Wellness: PM Modi at World Health Assembly

New Delhi, May 20 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the 78th session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva via video conferencing on Tuesday, stated that this year’s theme, “One World for Health,” aligns closely with India’s holistic and inclusive vision for global health and wellness.

Reiterating the concept of “One Earth, One Health” he had shared at last year’s Assembly, PM Modi emphasized that the future of a healthier world hinges on inclusion, integrated vision, and global collaboration. “The health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable,” he said, pointing to India’s commitment to equity-driven healthcare reform.

Key Highlights from the PM’s Address:

• Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, now covers over 580 million Indians, recently expanding to include all citizens above 70 years of age.
• A vast network of Health and Wellness Centres across India ensures early screening and detection of diseases like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension.
• India’s public pharmacies provide affordable, high-quality medicines, reducing the financial burden on millions.
• Digital health innovations, including a nationwide health identity system and platforms tracking vaccinations for pregnant women and children, are transforming healthcare delivery.
• India’s free telemedicine service has enabled more than 340 million consultations, ensuring access to healthcare even in remote areas.

Modi noted that these initiatives have led to a significant decline in out-of-pocket health expenditure and an increase in government spending on health, reflecting a stronger public health infrastructure.

He also highlighted India’s commitment to the Global South, offering scalable and sustainable healthcare models. “India is ready to share its best practices and learning with the world,” the Prime Minister declared.

Looking ahead to the 11th International Day of Yoga in June, PM Modi invited global participation under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, reinforcing Yoga’s role as a unifying force for global well-being.

Congratulating the World Health Organization and its member states on the successful negotiation of the INB treaty, PM Modi emphasized the need for collective action to fight future pandemics and to ensure no one is left behind.

He concluded with a Vedic prayer, echoing India’s ancient wisdom: “May all be healthy, may all be happy, may all be free from disease.”