In a heartfelt address at the World Health Summit Regional Meeting Asia 2025 held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, reflected on India’s compassionate leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking to an audience of global health experts and policymakers, Shri Goyal shared how India, guided by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the ancient belief that “the world is one family” — rose to the occasion by sharing nearly 300 million vaccine doses with countries in need through the Vaccine Maitri initiative. Many of these doses were offered free of cost, reaffirming India’s commitment to global health equity when the world needed it the most.
Unlike several other nations that imposed restrictions on exports during the pandemic, India stood firm in its belief that no country should be left behind. Shri Goyal spoke with deep sincerity about India’s decision to prioritize life-saving medicines and vaccines for all, rather than yielding to the temptation of profit during a time of global crisis. He fondly recalled his conversations with world leaders who expressed gratitude for India’s timely and affordable supply of critical medicines when shortages loomed large.
Emphasizing the importance of health equity, Shri Goyal called attention to the troubling practice of prolonging pharmaceutical patents through minor innovations, warning that such actions could deny affordable healthcare to millions. He invited delegates to witness firsthand India’s ongoing efforts to bring quality healthcare to even the most remote corners of the country, reinforcing that the nation’s mission is driven by compassion and inclusivity.
Highlighting the scale of India’s public health initiatives, Shri Goyal proudly shared that over 620 million citizens are now covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the world’s largest government-funded health insurance program. He spoke passionately about India’s vision of healthcare that goes beyond treatment — embracing prevention, wellness, mental health, and a dignified life for every citizen. Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shri Goyal reminded the gathering that true healthcare means creating better lifestyles and building a better future for all.
Further reflecting on India’s holistic approach to welfare, he mentioned initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the Jal Jeevan Mission, the Ujjwala Yojana, and the provision of free food grains to 800 million citizens — all designed to strengthen the health, dignity, and economic security of the people, especially the vulnerable.
As he concluded his address, Shri Goyal called upon the global community to join hands in building a healthier, fairer, and more compassionate world. His words echoed India’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that health and dignity are not privileges for a few, but rights for every citizen of the world.
