New Delhi [India], June 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 123rd episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, marked a major public health achievement by announcing that the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared India “Trachoma-free.”
PM Modi attributed the success to the dedication of India’s frontline health workers and national welfare initiatives. “We resolved to eliminate trachoma, and I am delighted to share that WHO has declared India as Trachoma-free. This is the result of the tireless efforts of millions, especially our health workers,” he said.
He further highlighted the impact of initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Jal Jeevan Mission, which have contributed to improved hygiene and clean drinking water access—key factors in eliminating trachoma. “Now that clean water is reaching every household, the risk of such diseases has reduced significantly,” he added. WHO recognized India’s efforts not just in curing the disease but addressing its root causes.
On October 8, 2024, WHO officially declared that India had eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. Trachoma, a bacterial eye infection, was once a leading cause of blindness in various parts of the country.
PM Modi explained, “Trachoma spreads through bacteria and, if neglected, can lead to blindness. At one time, it was a common issue in many regions of India.”
In the same address, the Prime Minister also reflected on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, describing it as a “dark chapter” in India’s democratic journey. He observed the day as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas (Constitution Killing Day), and played rare archival audio of former Prime Ministers Morarji Desai, Babu Jagjivan Ram, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had condemned the Emergency and defended civil liberties.
He stated, “Those who imposed the Emergency murdered democracy and tried to make the judiciary their puppet. Indians refused to compromise. The people ultimately triumphed.”
Desai’s audio recounted mass arrests and media suppression under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), while Vajpayee described the 1977 elections as a “peaceful revolution.” Jagjivan Ram called it a movement to restore democracy and defeat dictatorship.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of remembering such struggles to remain vigilant in protecting the Constitution and democratic values.