Recognizing India’s remarkable public health successes in achieving Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination (MNTE) and YAWS-free status, WHO and UNICEF today felicitated the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India at a special celebratory event in New Delhi.
Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, World Health Organization South-East Asia and Mr James Gitau, Deputy Country Representative, UNICEF India felicitated Mr J.P. Nadda, Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India for achieving MNTE and Yaws-free India.
The felicitation ceremony took place in the august presence of Mrs Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Nadda stated that following the success of polio eradication programme, these achievements reflect the dedication of the country towards achievement of health equity and universal health coverage.
“This has been possible due to the commitment and dedication of the lakhs of health workers, various stakeholders and concerted efforts of planners and policymakers,” he added.
In her address, Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh said that India’s sustained political and financial commitment to the battles against yaws and MNTE is commendable.
“The achievements will not only improve the health of marginalized communities, but will also enhance their socio-economic status and contribute to India’s wider development,” she added.
These public health achievements are a perfect examples of Government of India’s strong commitment at all levels and excellent collaboration with partner agencies to overcome the barriers in providing improved access to immunization as well as comprehensive social and healthcare services.
Amongst other stakeholders and dignitaries present at the ceremony were Mr B.P. Sharma, Secretary Health, MoHFW; Dr Jagdish Prasad, Director General of Health Services, MoHFW; Mr C.K. Mishra, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, National Health Mission, MoHFW; senior officials from the health ministry and development partners.