Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra represented Bharat at the BRICS Health Ministers’ meeting held alongside the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva. Chandra emphasized Bharat’s active participation in BRICS health initiatives and the country’s efforts to strengthen health systems among BRICS nations to tackle global health challenges.
Chandra was recently appointed as Committee A’s head at the 77th session of the World Health Assembly (WHA). This position highlights Bharat’s growing influence in global health discussions and its commitment to addressing critical health issues worldwide.
During his address, Chandra spoke about Bharat’s contributions to BRICS health initiatives. He mentioned Bharat’s efforts in promoting collaborative projects to enhance health systems in BRICS countries. This collaboration aims to address significant global health challenges effectively.
Union Health Secretary addresses #BRICS Health Ministers’ Meeting on the sidelines of the 77th World Health Assembly at Geneva
India has demonstrated active engagement in BRICS health track initiatives, promoting collaborative endeavors to advance joint health…
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) May 29, 2024
Chandra noted that during Bharat’s presidency of BRICS, the nation recognized the importance of a BRICS-integrated Early Warning System. This system aims to prevent mass infectious disease outbreaks in line with international health regulations. He also stressed the need for a One Health approach for disease surveillance, which considers the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
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A key highlight of Bharat’s presidency was the virtual launch of the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre. India designated the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – National Institute of Virology (NIV) as the coordinating agency for the center’s activities.
Chandra shared that ICMR, along with NIV and other partner institutes, is conducting phase-3 clinical trials of a recombinant dengue vaccine. Research and trials for other diseases like Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), Nipah virus, Human Papillomavirus, TB, and Influenza are also ongoing.
Chandra addressed the pressing issue of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), which poses a significant threat to global health. He outlined Bharat’s national action plan on AMR, launched in 2017. This plan emphasizes cross-sectoral collaboration and the One Health approach, aligning with the WHO’s Global Action Plan on AMR.
Chandra advocated for BRICS countries to collaborate in developing and implementing strategies to combat AMR, including data analysis, laboratory quality control, epidemiological assessment, and training initiatives.
Chandra also highlighted the importance of collaboration within BRICS in the field of nuclear medicine and radiopharmaceutical science. He stressed the need to strengthen the radiopharmaceutical supply chain, enhance isotope production, and develop advanced digital solutions.
In his ending remarks, Chandra urged BRICS member states to enhance their collaboration and work together to find solutions to various health challenges. He emphasized that joint efforts are crucial to improving health outcomes and tackling global health issues effectively.
The meeting was attended by several senior officials from the Union Health Ministry, including Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary, and Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Managing Director of the National Health Mission (NHM). Their presence underscored Bharat’s commitment to global health collaboration and leadership within BRICS.
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Bharat’s active engagement in BRICS health initiatives and its leadership role in the WHA demonstrate the nation’s dedication to addressing global health challenges. By promoting collaboration and innovative solutions, Bharat aims to strengthen health systems across BRICS nations and improve global health outcomes.
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