India spearheads global medical countermeasures initiative

Under its G20 presidency, India is leading the development of an inclusive medical countermeasures framework, aiming to secure equitable access to medical supplies, including vaccines and diagnostic services, for all nations. This proposal came from a high-ranking official from the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday.
In efforts to confront any future global health crises akin to the Covid pandemic, India has suggested the establishment of a medical countermeasure coordination platform. Dr. Michael Ryan, Executive Director of the WHO Health Emergency Programme, expressed his support for this initiative at the third G20 Health Working Group meeting, hosted in India from June 4-6.
The G20’s health and pandemic preparedness agenda is greatly enhanced by India’s leadership, according to Dr. Ryan. He emphasised that the discussions focus on fortifying the world’s response to forthcoming pandemics.
India’s notable scientific innovation capabilities, robust pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, and vital role in global health make it uniquely positioned to lead this initiative. Dr. Ryan shared his optimism about India’s focus on this issue during its G20 presidency.
India’s G20 presidency is prioritising three key areas in the health sector: health emergency prevention, cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector, and digital health innovations. The proposed global medical countermeasures coordination platform is expected to address these areas effectively.
Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan stressed the urgency of global cooperation, citing the theme of India’s G20 presidency, “One Earth, One Family, One Future.” He expressed his belief that an immediate global response is critical in ensuring preparedness for the next pandemic.