ICMR Wins 2024 UN Inter-Agency Task Force Award
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has won the 2024 UN Inter-Agency Task Force Award for its important work in fighting non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving mental health. This award recognizes how ICMR’s efforts support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its successful actions in multiple sectors over the years.
What are Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)?
Non-communicable diseases are health conditions that are not spread from person to person. They include illnesses like:
- Heart diseases (such as heart attacks and strokes)
- Cancers
- Chronic respiratory diseases (such as asthma and chronic bronchitis)
- Diabetes
These diseases are a major cause of sickness and death worldwide, creating a big strain on healthcare systems. They also cost a lot of money to treat. This is why it’s so important to prevent and control them.
What Role Does ICMR Play?
ICMR has been very active in addressing NCDs in India. It focuses on:
Research: Studying these diseases to find better ways to treat and prevent them.
Policy advocacy: Working with the government to create health policies that reduce the spread and impact of NCDs.
Health interventions: Creating programs to improve people’s health and lower the number of people suffering from these diseases.
Key Initiatives by ICMR
Assistive Health Technology: ICMR has set up national centers to develop tools and technologies that help people access better healthcare.
Sustainable Products: ICMR promotes environmentally friendly healthcare products, making healthcare both effective and eco-friendly.
World’s Largest Assistive Technology Survey: ICMR conducted the biggest survey on assistive technology. This survey helps create better health policies and practices to improve care for people who need assistance.
Impact and Future Plans
The work ICMR is doing has a big impact on public health by raising awareness, improving access to healthcare, and encouraging sustainable practices. The award from the UN shows how committed ICMR is to improving global health and mental health in India.
About ICMR
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) was created in 1911, making it India’s oldest medical research organization. Its headquarters is in New Delhi, and it works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. ICMR oversees medical research in India, with a network of over 27 national laboratories. It was very involved in India’s response to COVID-19, especially in approving vaccines. ICMR also does research in traditional medicine, helping blend modern and traditional health practices.
Month: Current Affairs - September, 2024
Category: Awards, Honours & Persons in News