Is India’s Public Health Advancing with Strong Science and Community Engagement?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Dec 24 (NationPress) The public health trajectory of India has entered a crucial and results-driven phase, stated the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, JP Nadda, on Wednesday.
Speaking at the inaugural Advancing Public Health Outcomes Forum 2025 in New Delhi, he emphasized that this journey is propelled by robust scientific research, efficient delivery systems, and active community participation.
"Ongoing national initiatives have resulted in noticeable advancements in disease control, increased vaccination coverage, and enhanced institutional and scientific capacities," Nadda remarked.
He added, "The strides made in disease management and vaccination are not merely isolated programs; they showcase institutional resilience, Jan Bhagidari (community involvement), and enduring political resolve."
Moreover, he highlighted the government's commitment to fortifying primary healthcare, stating that the goal is to establish one Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) for every 2,000 individuals.
"The government is diligently working towards the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification for all AAMs, with over 30,000 already having achieved this certification," he stated.
The Health Minister also pointed out the advancements in malaria management, a reduction in tuberculosis cases, and improvements in maternal and child health metrics, with declines in maternal, infant, under-5, and neonatal mortality rates.
"India has shifted from a high-burden malaria nation to a high-impact state, with malaria cases decreasing by over 80% and fatalities by 78%," Nadda noted.
"The incidence of TB has dropped from 237 cases per lakh in 2015 to 187 per lakh currently. He highlighted that India has recorded a 21% reduction in TB incidence, significantly surpassing the global average decline of 12%."
He also emphasized the impact of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which has significantly lowered out-of-pocket expenses from 69% to 39%, enhancing financial security for millions of households.
During the event, the Union Health Minister also unveiled four key reports that showcase India’s progress in malaria elimination, challenges related to TB, the eradication of Lymphatic Filariasis, and optimizing immunization for improved health.