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New Delhi, May 21, 2025 – In a landmark move to bolster global health security and pandemic preparedness, India has officially joined other World Health Organization (WHO) member states in adopting the Global Pandemic Treaty during the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva.
A Focus on Inclusivity and the Global South
Addressing the Assembly, the Prime Minister of India emphasized the critical importance of inclusivity in global health efforts. “The future of a healthy world depends on inclusion, and the health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable, especially in the Global South who are particularly impacted by health challenges,” he stated.
He highlighted India’s significant progress in healthcare, noting a marked reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure and a substantial increase in government health spending. The Prime Minister also cited successful initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, which provides free treatment to 580 million people, and the expansion of public pharmacies offering affordable medicines.
Key Provisions of the Pandemic Treaty
The newly adopted WHO Pandemic Agreement outlines principles and strategies to enhance international coordination for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Key elements include:
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Equitable and timely access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics
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Strengthening global health infrastructure
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Improved surveillance and information sharing among nations
The treaty aims to ensure that all countries, especially those in the Global South, are better equipped to handle future health emergencies.
India’s Health Initiatives in the Spotlight
The Prime Minister underscored India’s commitment to public health, mentioning the establishment of a vast network of Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) that offer screenings for major conditions like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. He also highlighted India’s digital platform for tracking vaccinations among pregnant women and children, which integrates benefits, insurance, medical records, and information.
Global Response and Notable Absences
According to a WHO release, the Pandemic Agreement was adopted during a plenary session, with 124 member states voting in favor and 11 abstaining. Importantly, no objections were raised by any member state during the process.
However, the adoption occurred without the participation of the United States, a major WHO contributor, which had withdrawn its funding commitments to the organization earlier this year.
Looking Ahead
The adoption of the Global Pandemic Treaty marks a significant step forward in international public health cooperation. With India’s active participation and advocacy for the Global South, the treaty is expected to pave the way for more equitable and effective responses to future pandemics.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information available from the Economic Times Health article titled “India adopts pandemic treaty; PM says world health depends on global south status” published on May 21, 2025. For more detailed and updated information, please refer to the original source: Economic Times Health.
