WHO Pandemic treaty: A shared commitment, need greater global cooperation, says PM Modi

IANS May 20, 2025 345 views

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the landmark WHO Pandemic Treaty as a crucial step in global health cooperation. The agreement, finalized after three years of negotiations, aims to bridge healthcare inequities and prepare for future pandemic challenges. Modi emphasized India's unique healthcare models and commitment to inclusive global health strategies. The treaty represents a significant milestone in international medical collaboration, with potential far-reaching implications for global pandemic preparedness.

"The health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable" - PM Narendra Modi
WHO Pandemic treaty: A shared commitment, need greater global cooperation, says PM Modi
New Delhi, May 20: The historic WHO Pandemic Treaty adopted today is a shared commitment that requires greater global cooperation, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva on Tuesday.

Key Points

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- WHO Pandemic Treaty adopted after three years of intensive negotiations

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India signals commitment to global health collaboration

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Ayushman Bharat scheme covers 580 million people

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Yoga highlighted as global wellness approach

Addressing the gathering, via videoconferencing, he highlighted that this year's theme, 'One World for Health,' aligns with India's vision for global health.

After three years of negotiations, the Agreement was adopted by consensus by member countries of the WHO at the ongoing 78th World Health Assembly. India is also a signatory to this treaty, which has been in talks since the Covid-19 outbreak, which killed millions of people worldwide. The treaty aims to bridge global healthcare gaps and inequities in case of future pandemics.

"The WHO Pandemic Treaty is a shared commitment to fighting future pandemics through greater global cooperation," said PM Modi, while extending his congratulations on the successful negotiations of the treaty.

While the Global South is particularly impacted by several health challenges, PM Modi stated that "India's approach provides replicable, scalable, and sustainable models".

He also expressed India's willingness to share its learnings and best practices with the world, especially with the Global South.

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of building a healthy planet while ensuring that no one is left behind.

"The future of a healthy world depends on inclusion, an integrated vision, and collaboration," he said.

Further, PM Modi also highlighted India's health reforms ranging from Ayushman Bharat -- the world's largest health insurance scheme, which covers 580 million people and provides free treatment -- to the increased role of technology in improving health outcomes, as well as the rise in Government Health Expenditure, leading to a significant decline in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure of the citizens.

"The health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable", underlined the Prime Minister.

Emphasising India's role as the birthplace of Yoga, the Prime Minister also extended an invitation to all countries for the upcoming 11th International Day of Yoga in June. The theme this year is 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health'.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the WHO Pandemic Treaty article:
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Rajesh K.
Excellent initiative by PM Modi ji! India's leadership in global health is commendable. Our Ayushman Bharat scheme is truly world-class and can inspire other nations. Hope this treaty ensures fair vaccine distribution next time - we saw how rich nations hoarded during COVID. 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
While the treaty is a good step, I hope it doesn't compromise our sovereignty. We must ensure India's interests are protected in any global health framework. Our vaccine diplomacy during COVID showed what we're capable of - let's maintain that independent spirit.
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Arjun S.
"Yoga for One Earth, One Health" - brilliant theme! This is soft power done right. While Western nations focus on medicines, we're reminding the world about prevention through yoga. Proud moment for Indian traditional knowledge getting global recognition.
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Sunita R.
Hope this treaty ensures that developing countries get proper technology transfer for vaccine production. During COVID, we saw how patents became barriers. India's generic medicine industry can play a big role if given fair chance.
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Vikram J.
The focus on Global South is important, but implementation will be key. Many such treaties end up being paperwork exercises. India should push for concrete action plans with timelines. Our health workers' experience during COVID should guide the process.
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Neha T.
While appreciating global cooperation, we must first strengthen our primary healthcare centers. Many villages still lack basic facilities. International treaties are good, but ground reality in rural India needs equal attention. Hope the government balances both priorities.

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Tags:
WHO Pandemic Treaty Narendra Modi Global Health Coronavirus World Health Assembly International Diplomacy Healthcare Reform