PGI hosts global public health leadership summit

Chandigarh: Highlighting the interconnected nature of global healthcare, Vijay Nehra, additional secretary, department of health and family welfare, said “a health problem anywhere in the world is a concern for everybody in the world.”

Speaking at the valedictory session of the 33rd International Public Health Management Development Program (IPHMDP) at PGI Friday, Nehra stressed the need for stronger global collaboration. “The lesson is clear — we must collaborate more, interact more, share our challenges and share our success stories,” he said.

The 10-day programme marked its decennial (10th anniversary) edition and was conducted under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation initiative of the ministry of external affairs. It brought together 41 healthcare professionals and public health leaders from 18 countries.

The initiative serves as a platform for policy dialogue, cross-learning and strengthening health systems, reflecting India’s growing role in academic diplomacy and South-South cooperation.

Nehra underscored mutual learning, noting that India also benefits from the exchange. “India has as much to learn from each one of you as we can share from our own experiences. Institutions like PGI represent some of the finest strengths of our healthcare ecosystem,” he said.

PGI director Vivek Lal highlighted the broader vision behind the programme. “This initiative reflects India’s timeless philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ — the world is one family. Beyond academic learning, it has built enduring bridges of trust, knowledge and friendship across nations,” he said, adding that the programme positions PGIMER at the forefront of global public health capacity building.

Programme director Sonu Goel described the initiative as evolving beyond a training exercise. “This programme is now a global movement of public health leadership. Through our growing network of IPHMDP ambassadors, ideas and innovations shared at PGIMER continue to strengthen health systems across continents,” he said.

JS reviews PGI projects

Joint secretary Vijay Nehra visited upcoming facilities, including the Sarangpur centre, and appreciated ongoing initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, PGI director Dr Vivek Lal said.