Experts for focus on tropical diseases

Hyderabad: A conference of experts on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), which was held in New Delhi on Monday, decided to accelerate efforts to control and eliminate the NTDs in India.

On the occasion, Global Health Progress, Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI) , International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) came together to launch a strategic drive aimed at the ultimate eradication of NTDs in India.

The initiative, called “Partnering for Success – Reducing India’s Burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases” was launched on Monday. It would be followed up with a landmark report . According to a press release, the meeting emphasized on the partnerships between the Government of India, research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, donors, health professionals and civil society that have contributed technical knowledge, delivery of services and drugs and research funding for NTDs in India.

Anshu Prakash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India said, “India has supported the London Declaration of 2012 and has joined other member nations at the World Health Assembly this year to adopt a resolution for controlling, eliminating and eradicating 17 identified NTDs. For India to achieve its ambitious NTD goals, we must work with other sectors to ensure communities have access to clean water, sanitation, improved living conditions, vector control and stronger health systems in endemic areas. ” Ranjana Smetacek, Director General for the Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India said.