The esteemed 2024 UN Inter-Agency Task Force Award has been given to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in recognition of its noteworthy contributions to mental health and non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention and control, as well as its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). On September 18, 2024, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda made this declaration.
The ICMR has launched a number of ground-breaking programs to improve the health of people with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which include mental health issues as well as ailments like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The development of national centers devoted to assistive health technology has been one of its main initiatives. These facilities concentrate on developing long-lasting assistive devices that help people with a range of health issues. Additionally, the ICMR has carried out the biggest survey on assistive technology in the world, compiling vital information for its plans and initiatives.
Minister Nadda conveyed his happiness over the ICMR’s award while highlighting the value of cross-sector cooperation in addressing public health concerns. He emphasized that the award is a testament to ICMR’s dedication to creating sustainable, cheap, and easily accessible health solutions that considerably enhance the lives of Indians afflicted with NCDs and mental health disorders.
Nadda emphasized in his social media post the creative methods that ICMR has used, especially in the field of assistive technology. The ICMR is trying to guarantee that healthcare advancements reach a wider segment of the population, especially marginalized communities that are frequently most affected by chronic health conditions, by developing solutions that are both sustainable and effective.
The UN’s endorsement of the ICMR is indicative of its dedication to a more comprehensive health agenda that integrates work in mental health and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) while also advancing the global SDGs. These objectives, which further connect with India’s national health policy, seek to provide universal health coverage and access to high-quality essential health care services.
Minister Nadda reaffirmed the government’s commitment to carrying out this important work going forward and making sure that improvements in public health tactics and technology continue to be a top priority. This award encourages future efforts to improve health care delivery and outcomes for people in India who are coping with chronic illnesses and mental health issues, in addition to acknowledging previous achievements.
SOURCE :
THE HINDU
