Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a video address to the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva on Tuesday, emphasized that the future of a healthy world lies in inclusion, integrated vision, and global collaboration. He underlined that India’s healthcare model offers replicable, scalable, and sustainable solutions, especially for the Global South.
Highlighting this year’s theme, ‘One World for Health’, PM Modi said it reflects India’s long-standing vision of ‘One Earth, One Health’, a concept he first proposed during the 2023 Assembly. “The health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable,” he stated.
Modi noted that inclusion is at the heart of India’s healthcare reforms. He spoke about the Ayushman Bharat initiative — the world’s largest health insurance scheme — which provides free treatment to 580 million Indians, now expanded to include all citizens above 70 years.
The Prime Minister also spotlighted India’s extensive network of Health and Wellness Centres, enabling early screening for diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. Additionally, he mentioned the role of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which offer affordable, high-quality medicines, reducing the financial burden on families.
Technology, he said, is playing a key role in India's healthcare transformation. “Our digital health initiatives — from tracking vaccinations of pregnant women and children to issuing unique digital health IDs — are helping integrate benefits, insurance, and medical records,” he said.
He also highlighted India’s free telemedicine platform, which has facilitated over 340 million consultations, ensuring that even those in remote areas have access to doctors.
Modi pointed out a significant drop in out-of-pocket expenditure, alongside a steady rise in government health spending, reflecting a shift towards a more inclusive and publicly funded healthcare system.
Speaking on global cooperation, he lauded the successful negotiations of the WHO-led Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) treaty, calling it a strong step toward pandemic preparedness and cooperation.
Modi concluded his message by inviting the world to join in celebrating the 11th International Day of Yoga in June, highlighting this year’s theme — ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ — and reaffirmed India’s commitment to sharing its health innovations with the global community.
