India has made remarkable progress in reducing poverty, expanding electrification, and improving access to clean water and sanitation, said Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). In an interview during her three-day visit to India, Kanem commended the country for its transformative achievements.
“When I look back at the state of poverty, which has significantly reduced, the advancements in electrification, and the aspirations for clean water and sanitary facilities for all, it’s clear that India has made dramatic improvements,” Kanem said. She emphasized the pride the United Nations feels in being a key partner in these efforts.
Having visited India for over 30 years, Kanem highlighted the rapid progress she has witnessed, particularly in rural communities. “The momentum and acceleration of progress in India are exciting. When India moves the needle, much changes across communities,” she said.
Marking 50 years of UNFPA’s partnership with India, Kanem praised the collective efforts of the Indian government, communities, and stakeholders in driving development. She pointed to India’s success in reducing the maternal mortality rate, putting the country ahead of its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets. “No woman should die while giving life, and India is making this a reality by eliminating preventable maternal deaths,” she added.
Kanem also recognized the significant reduction in child marriages, which have halved over the past 50 years. “This cultural shift, where the girl child is being educated, signals a brighter future with empowered women, happier families, and economic prosperity,” she said.
Speaking on India’s growing global leadership, Kanem applauded the country’s efforts in South-South partnerships and its commitment to sustainable development, particularly in areas critical to women and girls. “India is not only an economic powerhouse but also a leader in the Sustainable Development Goals, with a strong focus on women-led development,” she said.
She also highlighted India’s digital revolution, which is empowering women in remote areas by providing access to essential services. “India’s innovation in digital services is transforming lives at the grassroots level, with mobile phones enabling women to access vital government services and UNFPA information,” Kanem said.
Kanem’s visit to India aims to celebrate UNFPA’s ongoing efforts in the country, particularly in states like Rajasthan, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh, where the focus is on positive masculinities, data-driven development, and youth empowerment. “We are working towards ensuring that India achieves its goal of leaving no one behind,” she added.
Expressing her optimism about India’s future, Kanem concluded, “India’s commitment to women-led development is inspiring. UNFPA and the United Nations are dedicated to ensuring that women and girls remain at the center of development, giving them the dignity they deserve.”
Kanem also shared personal reflections from her time in India, including her experiences with Ayurveda in Tamil Nadu and her appreciation for India’s vibrant culture. “It’s a joy to be back and recommit to supporting India’s arc of progress,” she said.
(Inputs from ANI)
