The 33rd Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (PMNCH) Board meeting began on July 4, 2024, and is set to conclude on July 5, 2024. This significant gathering is taking place in Geneva, with global leaders and health advocates coming together to advance the health and well-being of women, children, and adolescents worldwide.

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Vice Chair of the PMNCH Board Jagat Prakash Nadda, delivered a keynote address via video message during the opening session. He praised PMNCH for its steadfast dedication to improving the lives of women, children, and adolescents and reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to these crucial issues. Nadda highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and preparing for the post-2030 agenda. He emphasized the power of partnerships and the necessity of multiple stakeholders working together to achieve common goals.

Leading the Indian delegation at the meeting is Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director (NHM), Health Ministry.

PMNCH stands as the world’s largest alliance dedicated to promoting and protecting the health, well-being, and rights of women, children, and adolescents. The organization envisions a world where every woman, child, and adolescent can realize their right to health and well-being, ensuring no one is left behind. Governed by a Board and administered by a Secretariat hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, PMNCH continues to lead efforts in this vital sector.

The 33rd Board meeting presents an opportunity for members to agree on major priorities and opportunities to advance Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH), Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and adolescent well-being goals as outlined in the 2021-2025 strategy. Additionally, discussions will begin on developing the 2026-2030 PMNCH Strategy, including how to position its issues and itself in relation to the post-2030 UN development goal-setting process.

This meeting marks a critical juncture for PMNCH as it seeks to continue its impactful work and set the stage for future advancements in global health initiatives.