During a recent high-level meeting at the United Nations in New York, India’s Union Health Secretary, Punya Salila Srivastava, emphasized the country’s determination to enhance global health security through cooperative efforts.
Speaking on Friday, she highlighted the importance of applying lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic to create stronger health systems and ensure consistent investment. Srivastava shared details about India’s comprehensive strategy to prevent and respond to pandemics, which involves collaboration across various sectors of government and society, addressing a wide range of potential health challenges.
She discussed India’s initiatives to broaden laboratory networks, improve emergency response coordination, build a robust health workforce, and enhance medical care capabilities to effectively deal with health emergencies. According to her, these actions should be integrated into national health strategies, with the understanding that while international support is valuable, countries must take the lead in their health obligations.
Drawing from the experiences during the COVID-19 crisis, Srivastava argued for the recognition of digital public infrastructure as a global public good, noting its vital role in areas like vaccination, health service continuity, and information sharing during the pandemic.
Moreover, she spoke about the principle of solidarity, advocating for fair access to essential health products. India notably delivered 300 million vaccine doses to around 100 nations and provided medical aid to over 150 countries during the pandemic, reflecting its commitment to a “One Earth, One Health” philosophy.
On the topic of the WHO Pandemic Agreement adopted in May 2025, Srivastava classified it as a significant achievement and stressed that its effectiveness hinges on a fair system for sharing pathogens and benefits. She insisted that nations contributing biological resources ought to have prompt access to vaccines and medical technologies, all while honoring national sovereignty.
She also remarked that any political declarations should not interfere with ongoing negotiations regarding pathogen access and benefit-sharing systems, emphasizing the need for solutions suited to each country’s specific conditions.
Wrapping up her address, Srivastava stated that the responsibility for pandemic preparedness lies with everyone and that fairness should be key in tackling future health crises. “Global solidarity must be shown through real action,” she affirmed.
World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus acknowledged strides made in fortifying global health security since the pandemic, including the formulation of the WHO Pandemic Agreement and updates to the International Health Regulations. He stressed the need for prompt conclusion of negotiations on the pathogen access system, warning that any delays could hinder global preparedness for future outbreaks.
