IMA applauds Harsh Vardhan for assuming charge as WHO Executive Board chairman

The Indian Medical Association applauded Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan for assuming charge as the chairman of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Executive Board. Dr Vardhan has been elected as the chairman of the Executive Board of WHO for the year 2020-21.

New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has applauded Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan for assuming charge as the chairman of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Executive Board.

"It's a matter of pride and satisfaction that a member of IMA is taking charge as the chairman of the WHO executive board. It is all the more significant that this responsibility is being shouldered by you on behalf of India at this crucial time. It has to be noted that the role of WHO has come under close scrutiny recently," said Dr RV Ashokan, secretary-general, IMA.

It is pertinent to mention here that WHO came under sharp criticism from countries across the globe especially the US, over its role involving coronavirus pandemic.

Dr Vardhan has been elected as the chairman of the Executive Board of WHO for the year 2020-21. He replaced Dr Hiroki Nakatani of Japan.

After taking charge as the chairman, Dr Vardhan shared India's experience of combating COVID-19.

"The pandemic has made humanity acutely aware of the consequences of ignoring the strengthening and preparedness of our healthcare system," said Dr Vardhan.

It is to be noted that the WHO's Executive Board is composed of 34 technically qualified members elected for a three-year term.

The main function of the board is to implement the decisions and policies of the Health Assembly and advise and facilitate its work.

It was in 2019, WHO's South-East Asia group had unanimously decided that India would be elected to the post of executive board chairman for one year after which it will be rotated to other members.

Notably, WHO's Executive Board chairman post is held by rotation for one year among regional groups.

"He (Dr Harsh Vardhan) is the pioneer of India's successful pulse polio programme and has been in the forefront in the fight against tobacco and many other diseases. The world can now gain from his expertise and experience," said Dr Poonam Khetrapal, Regional Director, WHO.