Govt Committed to Building a Climate-Resilient Health System: Health Secy Chandra

Chandra further highlighted India's partnerships with global institutions such as the ADB to strengthen the health sector in combating climate impacts.

The Indian government is prioritizing the development of a climate-resilient health system to protect the health of its citizens while supporting global climate initiatives, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra announced during the Climate and Health Solutions (CHS) India Conclave in Delhi.

Organized by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the two-day event aims to develop actionable strategies for India’s health sector in response to the impacts of climate change.

Addressing the conference, Chandra stated, "The Climate and Health Solutions India Conclave reaffirms our commitment to creating a climate-resilient health system that caters to the unique challenges of developing nations like ours. India is setting an example by integrating climate considerations into health policies and emergency response frameworks."

Chandra further highlighted India's partnerships with global institutions such as the ADB to strengthen the health sector in combating climate impacts.

He added, "Together, we aim to build a sustainable future, working towards the vision of 'One Health, One Family, One Future.'"

Punya Salila Srivastava, Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the proactive measures taken by India, noting the establishment of the Mission on Climate Change and Health under the Prime Minister's Council on Climate Change.

She also highlighted the 2019 launch of the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH), which aligns public health initiatives with climate change strategies.

G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, in his address, underlined India's leadership in addressing the intersection of climate change and public health.

"As we face rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns, it is essential to design integrated and sustainable solutions that protect both the people and the environment," he said.

India's efforts to create a climate-resilient health system are seen as a critical step in responding to both public health and environmental challenges, ensuring the long-term well-being of its citizens.

Days back, Union Health Secretary, Apurva Chandra, unveiled the annual publication "Health Dynamics of India (Infrastructure and Human Resources) 2022-23" in New Delhi.

Previously known as "Rural Health Statistics", this document has been published annually since 1992.

Chandra emphasized that the publication is a reliable and authentic source of information that is critical for policymakers, health administrators, and stakeholders involved in the National Health Mission (NHM).

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