UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 14 March 2025

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India Proposes South-East Asia Surveillance Network

Introduction:

  • India has proposed the creation of a South-East Asia Surveillance Network to strengthen regional cooperation in responding to health emergencies.
  • The proposal was made during a World Health Organization (WHO) meeting, emphasizing the need for a collaborative framework to address public health challenges in the region.

Why in News:

  • The proposal comes in the wake of global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and timely information sharing.
  • The initiative aligns with India’s commitment to global health security and its leadership role in the WHO South-East Asia Region.
  • It is relevant for UPSC aspirants as it touches upon international relationshealth governance, and India’s role in global health initiatives.

Key Features of the Proposal:

  • Objective: To establish a regional surveillance network for early detection, monitoring, and response to health emergencies.
  • Scope: The network will cover infectious diseasesemerging pathogens, and public health threats in the South-East Asia region.
  • Collaboration: It will involve member countriesWHO, and other international health organizations to ensure seamless coordination.

India's Role:

  • Leadership: India has taken the lead in proposing this initiative, reflecting its growing influence in global health governance.
  • Technical Expertise: India will contribute its experience in managing large-scale health programs like the National Health Mission and COVID-19 response.
  • Resource Sharing: India will share best practicestechnology, and resources to strengthen the region’s health infrastructure.

Significance of the Initiative:

  • Timely Response: The network will enable early detection and rapid response to health emergencies, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
  • Regional Cooperation: It will foster collaboration among South-East Asian countries, promoting health security and stability.
  • Global Health Security: The initiative aligns with the WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR) and supports the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA).

Challenges:

  • Coordination: Ensuring effective coordination among diverse countries with varying health systems and capacities.
  • Funding: Mobilizing adequate financial resources to establish and sustain the network.
  • Data Sharing: Building trust and ensuring transparency in data sharing among member countries.

Conclusion:

  • India’s proposal for a South-East Asia Surveillance Network is a significant step toward strengthening regional health security and addressing public health challenges.
  • It underscores India’s commitment to global health governance and its leadership role in the WHO South-East Asia Region.

Relevance:

  • GS Paper 2: Governance and International Relations
  • GS Paper 3: Disaster Management and Health

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