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Geneva, May 20, 2025 – In a landmark achievement for public health, India has been officially awarded the Certificate of Elimination of Trachoma as a Public Health Problem by the World Health Organization (WHO). The recognition was conferred by WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus during the opening session of the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
The Indian delegation, led by Punya Salila Srivastava, Secretary at the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), received the honor on behalf of the nation. The MoHFW hailed the moment as a testament to India’s sustained efforts in disease elimination, its emphasis on preventive healthcare, and its ongoing commitment to the vision of “Health For All.”
A Major Public Health Milestone
Trachoma, a neglected tropical disease and a leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide, has long posed a significant public health challenge. India’s success in eliminating trachoma as a public health problem is the result of years of dedicated surveillance, community engagement, and targeted interventions.
“This achievement reflects India’s consistent leadership in tackling neglected tropical diseases and its larger role in global health governance,” the MoHFW stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The ministry further emphasized that India’s active participation in the World Health Assembly underscores its commitment to strengthening global health systems and fostering international collaboration.
Global Health Assembly Highlights
The 78th World Health Assembly, running from May 19 to 27 under the theme “One World for Health,” brings together health leaders from across the globe to address pressing challenges. Key agenda items include deliberations on the Pandemic Agreement, discussions on the Proposed Programme Budget for 2026-2027, and a Ministerial Roundtable on data and sustainable financing.
Teodoro Javier Herbosa of the Philippines has been elected President of this year’s Assembly. Among the major challenges facing the Assembly are a significant funding shortfall and ongoing debates over a proposed 20% increase in mandatory member contributions, especially in light of the United States’ intended withdrawal from WHO.
India’s Broader Role in Global Health
India’s recognition for eliminating trachoma further cements its status as a leader in public health, particularly in the fight against neglected tropical diseases. The country’s experience and strategies are expected to serve as a model for other nations aiming to achieve similar public health milestones.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information sourced from Business Standard’s report titled “India gets WHO certificate for eliminating trachoma at 78th WH Assembly” (published May 19, 2025). Only the headline and summary have been adapted for clarity; the main content is derived from a syndicated feed. For further details, please refer to the original article here.
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