May 14, 2020
PM Modi underlined the approach that India has adopted while highlighting how previous initiatives have increased the effectiveness of India’s COVID19 response
PM Modi appreciated the work done by the Gates Foundation and suggested that it takes the lead in analysing the necessary changes emerging in the post-COVID world
The Union Cabinet of India has approved investments to the tune of US$2 billion for the India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package
In terms of international efforts, India has ensured the supply of critical medicines to more than 120 countries, including the export of hydroxychloroquine to 55 countries
On May 14, 2020, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Bill Gates, the co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, via video conference. The dignitaries discussed the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic and stressed upon the importance of global coordination on scientific innovation and R&D to combat the pandemic.
PM Modi underlined the conscious approach that India has adopted in its fight against the health crisis – one based on ensuring public engagement through appropriate messaging. He also highlighted how some of the previous developmental initiatives taken by the Indian government, such as expanding financial inclusion, strengthening last-mile delivery of health services, popularising cleanliness and hygiene through the Swachh Bharat Mission, etc, have helped increase the effectiveness of India’s response to the present pandemic.
PM Modi appreciated the health-related work being done by the Gates Foundation all over the world, particularly in response to COVID-19. Lastly, he suggested that the Gates Foundation takes the lead in analysing the necessary changes in lifestyles, economic organisation, social behaviour, and modes of disseminating education and healthcare that would emerge in the post-COVID world, and the associated technological challenges that would need to be addressed, adding that India would be happy to contribute to such an analytical exercise.
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved investments to the tune of US$2 billion for the India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package.
Several research institutions and laboratories across India have also emerged with leading solutions to tackle the diverse implications of the health crisis. Some of these institutions include the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), the Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR-CECRI), and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These solutions are helping arrest the spread of the disease, ensuring a quicker return to normalcy.
In terms of international efforts, India has ensured the supply of critical medicines to more than 120 countries. Among other medical provisions, the Government of India has been exporting hydroxychloroquine to 55 countries. The countries benefiting from the supply spans from Malaysia to the United States. In the face of such unprecedented challenges, India has strengthened its ties with partner nations across the scope of scientific collaborations, trade of critical commodities, and exchange of key information and resources.