India's inclusive development model highlighted at UNHRC side event
India's inclusive development initiatives, particularly in healthcare and digital public infrastructure, received significant attention at a side event during the 62nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva. Global policymakers, academics, and civil society leaders called for stronger South-South cooperation to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The discussion, titled "Development in the Global South," brought together representatives from international organisations, youth groups, and development experts. They emphasised that developing nations are emerging as engines of innovation and practical solutions for sustainable development.
Ayushman Bharat and digital health as key models
A major focus of the event was India's rights-based approach to development. Speakers presented flagship initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat as a successful model of Universal Health Coverage aligned with the United Nations' Right to Development framework.
Nidal Salim, Director General of the Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health (GIWEH), highlighted India's achievements in digital public infrastructure, universal healthcare, renewable energy, agricultural development, and climate resilience. He stated that India's experience demonstrates how locally driven innovation and community-based development can deliver large-scale transformation while addressing the unique needs of developing countries.
Youth perspective on digital health transformation
Representing the youth perspective, Meyssan Soliman of GIWEH and Sorbonne University-Paris described Ayushman Bharat as one of the world's largest publicly funded healthcare programmes. It provides financial protection to millions of vulnerable families while expanding access to quality healthcare services. She also highlighted India's rapid progress in digital health through the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, telemedicine platforms, and electronic health records. According to her, technology-driven governance has improved transparency, expanded healthcare access, and reduced inequalities.
India's role in global health and South-South cooperation
The forum further acknowledged India's contribution to global health through the production of affordable generic medicines and vaccines. It described this as a strong example of how South-South cooperation can strengthen healthcare systems across the developing world.
Speakers noted that with less than five years remaining to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, countries of the Global South must work together by sharing successful development models, technological innovations, and policy experiences. Participants also underlined the continued relevance of the principles of sovereignty, equality, and mutual respect first articulated during the Bandung Conference, calling for stronger partnerships among developing nations.
Global South as driver of innovation
Concluding the discussions, delegates said the Global South should no longer be viewed merely as a recipient of international assistance but as an increasingly influential driver of innovation and sustainable development. India's development experience serves as an important example of inclusive and people-centric growth.
