India and Japan Advance Health Sector Partnership at Delhi Meet

India and Japan on today reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening health sector ties. According to Union Health Minister JP Nadda, the partnership is driven by a shared vision of stronger health systems, wider access to care, and greater innovation. As a result, both countries aim to deepen collaboration in key areas.

At the third India and Japan Joint Committee Meeting on Healthcare, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Nadda addressed senior officials from both nations. He co-chaired the session with Japan’s Healthcare Policy Minister, Kimi Onoda. During the meeting, participants reviewed ongoing initiatives and outlined future priorities.

A Shared Vision for Better Healthcare

Welcoming the Japanese delegation, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava described the platform as crucial for sustained dialogue. The discussions took place under the India-Japan Memorandum of Cooperation on healthcare. Through regular engagement, she noted, both sides have developed deeper mutual understanding.

Highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two nations, Nadda said healthcare has emerged as a central pillar of cooperation. Moreover, he reiterated India’s commitment to inclusive development under the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” In this context, he emphasized that affordable and accessible healthcare remains a national priority.

Meanwhile, Onoda reaffirmed Japan’s interest in expanding collaboration. In particular, she stressed innovation, research, and technology-driven solutions as key focus areas.

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Tackling Non-Communicable Diseases Together

A major portion of the discussions focused on non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Given their rising global burden, both sides agreed on the need for stronger preventive strategies.

To address this challenge, India presented its comprehensive NCD strategy. The plan centers on early screening, continuous treatment, and sustained public awareness. Additionally, it aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

On the other hand, Japan shared its experience in cancer screening and early diagnosis. It also outlined efforts to strengthen treatment systems through technical cooperation. Consequently, both countries agreed to exchange best practices more actively.

Strengthening Supply Chains and Digital Health

Beyond disease management, the two nations explored ways to enhance supply chain resilience. India highlighted the strength of its pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors. At the same time, it stressed boosting domestic manufacturing to ensure affordable access to essential medicines.

Similarly, Japan explained its public-private partnership model. This framework seeks to improve access to high-quality medical products while building stable supply networks.

In the area of digital health, India showcased progress under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. The initiative aims to create a robust digital health ecosystem nationwide. Meanwhile, Japan shared insights into system integration, artificial intelligence-based technologies, and collaborative research projects.

Renewed Momentum for Future Cooperation

Concluding the meeting, Nadda said the discussions injected fresh momentum into the India-Japan health partnership. Importantly, he noted that both sides now have a clearer roadmap for future cooperation.

Overall, officials from both countries expressed confidence in the growing partnership. With continued collaboration, they believe it will be possible to build more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready healthcare systems.

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