New Delhi, June 29 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi today highlighted a series of public health achievements, with a special emphasis on the eradication of eye disease trachoma, promotion of traditional wellness practices such as yoga, and women-led health initiatives at the grassroot levels.
Addressing the nation in the 123rd edition of his radio talk show Mann Ki Baat, the PM lauded India's successful elimination of Trachoma, a bacterial eye infection, which has now been declared eradicated by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“I am very happy to share with you that WHO has declared India Trachoma free. This is the result of the hard work of lakhs of people who fought this disease tirelessly; without a break. This success belongs to our health workers.
“…, the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ also helped in eradicating it. The ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’ also contributed a lot to this success. Today, when clean water is reaching every home through taps, the risk of such ailments has reduced,” said the PM.
He also drew attention to the international observance of Yoga Day on June 21, emphasising its growing global appeal and integration into daily wellness routines.
He highlighted large-scale participation across India, including events involving the differently abled, tribal students, and defence personnel. “The theme ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’ reflects the universal message of wellbeing and balance,” Modi said.
Further, the PM acknowledged the work of women’s self-help groups in advancing health and hygiene. Notably, women in Bhadrachalam, Telangana, were recognised for producing 40,000 affordable sanitary pads under the ‘Giri Sanitary Pads’ initiative, which were distributed in schools and offices in just three months.
“These women, once working as labourers, are now manufacturing millet-based biscuits and sanitary products—leading not only to better health outcomes but also enhanced livelihoods,” he remarked.
The address also touched on medical camps and service facilities organised along religious pilgrimage routes, describing them as expressions of the collective spirit of health service and devotion.
“These yatras are not only spiritual but also contribute to public welfare through free food, clean drinking water, and medical care,” he said.
In closing, Modi extended greetings in advance of National Doctors’ Day on July 1, as he said, “Doctors are the protectors of our health. We salute their contribution to society.” UNI AJ SSP