Statement by India under Agenda Item 2: Interactive dialogue on the report of the High Commissioner on the central role of the State in responding to pandemics and other health emergencies, and the socioeconomic consequences thereof, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey, Permanent Representative of India, (Geneva, 21 June 2021)

Madam President

My delegation thanks the High Commissioner for her Report and presentation on the States response to Covid-19 pandemics and takes note of the findings and recommendations therein.

Covid-19 pandemic has caused globally unprecedented socio-economic impact. It has impacted adversely the most vulnerable segments of our societies and setback the global progress in achieving the SDGs as well as global promotion and protection of human rights.

India has been in the forefront in global response to the pandemic. My Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during the Outreach Session at G-7 Summit, gave a call for "One Earth One Health", highlighting the importance of global unity, leadership and solidarity to prevent future pandemics.

While responding effectively to the pandemic, we have taken steps to assist our fellow developing countries in combatting the pandemics. We are grateful that a large number of countries extended support to us in our response to the recent wave of the pandemic.

Madam President

A ‘whole-of-the society’ approach has been followed by India in responding to the pandemic, with a view to save both lives and livelihood. Efforts of the government include provision of free foodgrains and lentils for 800 million people and a massive immunisation drive to vaccinate whole of India’s adult population.

India has been working with other countries in the WTO on a targeted and temporary waiver under TRIPS to ensure timely and equitable access to COVID 19 tools for all.

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