Cells, the building blocks of the body, depend on a delicate balance of energy intake, nutrient diversity, and optimal timing. By aligning dietary habits with the circadian rhythm—the natural cycles governed by the sun—each meal becomes more than nourishment; it becomes a tool to synchronize the body’s internal clocks, enhance metabolism, and foster resilience against diseases.

The Equation of Adequacy and Energy Balance

The body’s energy needs vary based on activity levels, age, and physiological demands, but the principle of balance remains constant. Overeating creates metabolic strain, leading to weight gain and systemic inflammation. Undereating deprives the body of the resources it requires to function, impairing immunity and cognitive performance. The key lies in mindful adequacy—consuming neither too little nor too much but aligning intake with energy expenditure.

Equally important is the diversity of nutrients. Macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—are the foundation of diet, while micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals act as the catalysts for cellular function. The absence of even a single nutrient can disrupt the body’s equilibrium, underscoring the importance of variety in dietary choices.

The Science of Digestion: Unveiling the Process

Digestion begins the moment food enters the mouth, where enzymes in saliva initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates. As food travels through the digestive tract, it encounters a series of complex interactions involving stomach acids, pancreatic enzymes, and intestinal flora. These processes work together to break down food into its molecular components, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream to nourish cells.

Yet, the efficiency of digestion depends on several factors, including portion size, the timing of meals, and hydration levels. Overburdening the digestive system with excessive or poorly combined foods can slow down absorption and lead to discomfort. On the other hand, regular meal intervals and balanced portions promote optimal digestion and energy utilization.

Digestive Efficiency: Practical Insights

Digestive health is shaped not only by what is eaten but also by how it is consumed. Simple practices such as eating slowly, chewing thoroughly, and avoiding distractions during meals can significantly enhance digestive efficiency. Similarly, incorporating fermented foods, fiber-rich vegetables, and adequate water intake supports a thriving gut microbiome, which is essential for overall health.

Avoiding highly processed foods and excessive sugar also reduces the burden on the digestive system, while maintaining consistent meal timings aligns digestion with the body’s natural rhythms.

Nutritional Mastery for Cellular Health

Cells are remarkably efficient machines, but their performance hinges on the quality of their fuel. Nutrient-dense foods—such as whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables—provide the building blocks for cellular repair, energy production, and disease prevention.

At the same time, the body thrives on predictability. Irregular eating patterns, skipping meals, or overloading on late-night snacks disrupt hormonal cycles, impairing digestion and metabolism. Nutritional mastery involves not only choosing the right foods but also consuming them in a structured, consistent manner.

Connecting Eating and Digesting: A Holistic View

The connection between eating and digestion extends beyond the physical—it defines the body’s capacity to thrive in a world of challenges. Each meal is an opportunity to nourish, repair, and energize. The alignment of eating habits with natural rhythms, combined with an understanding of the body’s nutrient needs, fosters cellular efficiency, mental clarity, and physical strength.

This mastery of nutrition and digestion is not achieved through convenience; it requires intentionality, discipline, and a deeper awareness of how life itself relies on the fuel provided. It is a realization that every choice at the table reverberates across the body’s systems, shaping not only immediate well-being but also the trajectory of health in the long term.

Closing the Loop

The act of eating is universal, yet its science is profound. It is a testament to the marvel of the human body—a biological system so precise that it transforms the simplest of meals into life-sustaining energy. Digestive health is the bridge between consumption and vitality, and it holds the key to unlocking human potential.

This journey of nourishment, from the plate to the cell, is a story of connection—between food and body, discipline and health, and knowledge and wisdom. By embracing the science of eating and digesting, the foundation is laid not only for personal well-being but also for a healthier, more sustainable future for humanity. Food, after all, is not just sustenance; it is life itself, waiting to be understood and cherished.

The Untapped Potential of Breathing

While breathing is instinctive, most of us barely scratch the surface of our lungs’ capacity. With each calm breath, we typically use only 10% of our lung volume, and approximately 40% of the air intake never reaches the point of oxygen exchange. Our lungs can hold 5.8 liters of air, yet each breath generally only moves about 0.5 liters. This leaves enormous potential for improvement, as better breathing means better living.

What if we could train our lungs, heart, and brain to work together more efficiently? By unlocking the full power of our respiratory system, we can enrich the body with more oxygen, reduce cellular stress, and elevate every aspect of our health and performance.

Mastering the Breath: A Conscious Practice

The act of breathing is both a technique and an art. It’s something we can train and master. Conscious, deep breathing strengthens the lungs, improves oxygen intake, and supports our cardiovascular system in supplying cells with the oxygen they need. Through practice, we can enhance the brain’s ability to regulate breathing automatically, ensuring our bodies receive the oxygen they need to thrive—even in moments of calm or stress.

Here are some key practices to build better lung capacity:

• Deep Nasal Breathing: Practice slow, controlled breathing using the nose, with a rhythm of 5 heartbeats to inhale, 7 to hold, and 9 to exhale. This technique trains the lungs to inflate more fully, enhancing oxygen exchange.

• Focus on Exhaling: Clearing stale air from the lungs allows more room for fresh, oxygen-rich air. Exhaling deeply prepares the body for deeper inhalation.

• Breathe through the nose, not the mouth: Nasal breathing warms, filters, and humidifies the air, allowing it to travel deeper into the lungs for more efficient oxygen absorption.

Strengthening the Heart-Lungs-Brain Engine

To take breathing mastery to the next level, it’s essential to support it with physical activities that stimulate the cardiovascular system. Aerobic exercises like brisk walking, swimming, and running challenge the heart-lungs-brain engine, boosting both lung capacity and heart strength. Engaging in such activities for 30 to 45 minutes daily at an elevated heart rate keeps the system strong, ensuring that oxygen delivery to cells is maximized.

Additionally, singing and dancing are not only joyful but also powerful exercises for the lungs. They naturally promote deep, rhythmic breathing, increasing lung strength and capacity over time.

Nourishing the Blood: The Oxygen Carrier

While breathing nourishes the body with oxygen, blood is the carrier that delivers it to each cell. For the cardiovascular system to function optimally, the blood must remain clean and efficient. A balanced diet rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and hydration supports this process by keeping the blood free from toxins and enhancing its oxygen-carrying capacity. Clean, healthy blood is essential for peak performance, ensuring that cells receive the oxygen and nutrients they need for optimal function.

Small Steps, Tremendous Impact

Improving the way, we breathe doesn’t require dramatic changes. Simple, consistent habits—like mindful breathing, regular physical activity, and proper nutrition—can have a profound impact on our health and well-being. These small steps add up, empowering our bodies to function more efficiently and increasing our ability to cope with daily challenges.

Conclusion

Every Breath is a Step Toward Transformation

Each breath we take holds the potential for transformation. Breathing is more than just air exchange—it’s the foundation of life itself, an opportunity to bring vitality, energy, and clarity into our lives. Every deep inhale fuels our cells, and every thorough exhale releases the toxins that burden our system. Breathing well is living well.

By mastering the breath, we not only sustain life but also unlock the limitless potential within us. Every controlled, conscious breath fortifies the body, strengthens the mind, and renews our spirit. Through this simple act, we hold the power to optimize performance, heal from stress, and move toward a healthier, more vibrant future.

Let us see every breath as a commitment to progress, a conscious choice to fuel our body and elevate our life. Breathe deeply, live fully, and rise to the potential that each breath unlocks.

Breathing is more than air in and out. It’s life itself.

The Health of Our Cells: The Foundation of Life

An unhealthy cell is low on fuel, energy-deprived, poor in performance, and unable to communicate properly within the system. A compromised cell undermines the body’s harmony, making us prone to illness and cognitive decline.

On the other hand, a nurtured cell is energized, performing its designated role efficiently. To maintain optimal health, cells require:

1. A supportive environment: a balance of nutrients, oxygen, and hydration.

2. Essential building materials: proteins and amino acids.

3. Food for energy: a steady supply of glucose.

4. Oxygen: for efficient energy production.

5. Water: to facilitate regulation, communication, and environmental stability.

6. Sleep: to repair, grow, and rejuvenate.

7. Activity: to function and contribute to the body’s overall system.

8. Sunlight and cosmic energy: to regulate circadian rhythms and enhance vitality.

By providing our cells with everything they need, we ensure our own survival, health, and progress. Thriving cells create a thriving brain and body, strengthening our connection to the cosmos and the world around us.

The Extraordinary Neurons: The Brain’s Special Cells

Our brain cells, or neurons, are extraordinary in both function and need. Though the brain represents just 2% of body weight, it consumes 20% of our energy, 20% of our oxygen, and 25% of our glucose. This is because the brain constantly processes information, generates new ideas, and communicates across an intricate network.

Exciting new research shows that neurogenesis—the birth of new neurons—can continue throughout life if the brain is nurtured properly. Neuroplasticity allows neurons to reorganize and reinforce connections, improving learning, memory, and cognitive performance. By nurturing our neurons, we unlock the brain's capacity to adapt, grow, and respond to sensory input, learning experiences, and even cosmic energy.

How to Nurture Every Cell:

To nurture our brain and body cells as a cohesive system, we must adopt habits that support their health:

1. Eat balanced meals that align with cellular needs.

2. Breathe deeply to provide oxygen for efficient energy generation.

3. Expose cells to sunlight and cosmic photons for circadian rhythm and vitality.

4. Stay hydrated to maintain proper cellular function.

5. Sleep well to follow the cosmic circadian rhythm for cell rejuvenation.

6. Exercise regularly for energy production, cardio-respiratory fitness, and body strength.

7. Challenge the brain daily with learning and stimulation to boost cognitive fitness.

8. Meditate to build a positive cosmic interface and enhance mental well-being.

Conclusion: The Cosmic Connection

Ultimately, the health of our cells is not only key to our survival but also to the energy we contribute to the world around us. Nurturing our cells is a biological necessity and the foundation of life itself. The strength and harmony of every cell determine how we live, grow, and connect with the universe.

By aligning our cells with cosmic energy through daily practices, we don’t just nurture the self—we nurture the soul. Our cells, when cared for, radiate positive energy to the cosmos. And the cosmos, in turn, nurtures us.

The Body-Brain Connection

The synergy between the body and brain is the engine that propels us through life. Our bodies are naturally designed for strength, flexibility, and responsiveness. They are self-regulating, constantly repairing and rejuvenating in preparation for action and performance. However, for this design to function at its best, our bodies need certain vital inputs: a regular wake-sleep cycle, nutritious balanced food at timely intervals, abundant oxygen, fresh water, Sunshine, and antioxidants to fuel & keep our cells healthy & stress free. Regular physical activity, exercise, restful sleep, and consistent training keep our bodies prepared to meet the demands of our environment with efficiency.

Environment: The Crucible of Health

Our environment, both internal and external, directly impacts our cells, their energy generation, and even the expression of our DNA. A positive environment yields positive outcomes—vibrant health and progressive growth. A healthy environment is one that thrives on the five elements of nature: it is radiant with sunshine, fresh with oxygen, abundant with water, lush with greenery, and infused with celestial energy. The spaces we occupy—where we live, sleep, work, and eat—must be stress-free, vibrant, and conducive to supporting both our brain and body. These harmonious surroundings enable us to generate, receive, and direct our energy in purposeful, positive, and progressive ways.

Health Redefined: A Holistic Approach

Rethinking health means recognizing that our brain, body, and environment form an interconnected system. Understanding this relationship and learning how to nourish each element is the foundation of true health. Regular training, both physical and mental, strengthens our energy grid, helping us build a connection to the cosmos. With clarity and purpose filling our minds, our thoughts and actions become more conscious and progressive, accelerating us toward our aspirations.

A Shift Toward Preventive Healthcare

In this redefined vision, health is not merely a reaction to disease but a proactive approach to preventive and progressive healthcare. The key lies in the shift from addressing illnesses to preventing them through lifestyle, environment, and mental well-being. Even when prescription medications are needed, the accompanying roles of emotional health, positive environments, and a conscious lifestyle are essential in making treatment more effective and economical.

Health: Our Greatest Asset

Health is our principle capital asset—the foundation upon which all else rests. Preserving, promoting, and leveraging this asset yields the highest returns, enabling us to live our lives to their fullest potential. Each step we take towards better health, each day of care and consciousness, counts in defining our future. As we rethink health in this holistic manner, we align ourselves with true progression and happiness, embracing a future where our well-being and fulfilment are intertwined.

This rethinking of health is not only essential for our survival but is the blueprint for our success and happiness. The future of healthcare is not just about treating illnesses but preventing them through an empowered mind, a fit body, and a thriving environment.

One of our most remarkable abilities is our capacity to sense, perceive, and communicate with the world around us. We are equipped with five primary senses, yet science is uncovering how we interact with our environment beyond conscious perception. Our bodies are enveloped by an electromagnetic energy field that interacts with the cosmos on both conscious and unconscious levels. This bio-field helps us continually adjust, align, and redefine our capabilities in response to dynamic situations, growing complexities, and new challenges. Studies in quantum biology suggest that this energy field influences cellular repair and body-environment communication, hinting at the limitless potential of human adaptability.

Moreover, sunlight—the most fundamental and powerful source of energy—plays a crucial role in enhancing this process. Sun exposure stimulates the production of vitamin D, essential for bone health, immune function, and mental well-being. It also triggers serotonin production, a neurotransmitter that improves mood and mental clarity. Research indicates that exposure to morning sunlight synchronizes our circadian rhythms—the body’s internal clock—leading to better cognitive function, metabolism, and overall vitality. This daily interaction with sunlight strengthens our energy field, ensuring our mind and body perform at their best.

Like any machine’s output, our performance depends on our design and how well we nurture, train, and operate our systems. But unlike machines, we are self-regulating, self-repairing, and capable of evolving. Our neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself and form new neural connections—demonstrates that we can continuously grow and improve. We are the ultimate super-machine, equipped to learn, adapt, and optimize in response to the challenges we face.

From a biological perspective, we are designed for superior performance. Our muscles generate energy through the conversion of glucose into ATP, powering every action. The heart, an extraordinary biological pump, beats over 100,000 times a day, delivering oxygen to every cell. The immune system is constantly evolving, learning from its environment to protect us in ever-changing conditions. Yet, like any advanced system, we require continuous maintenance—nourishing our bodies and minds to sustain peak output. Neuroscience shows that physical exercise, mental challenges, proper nutrition, rest, and exposure to natural light all enhance cognitive and physical performance.

The responsibility to maintain and operate this super-machine lies within us. The better we care for our bodies and minds, the more flawlessly we will perform, producing superior outcomes each day. This isn’t just about physical health—it’s about optimizing mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Mindfulness practices, for instance, are proven to enhance brain function, emotional regulation, and overall physical health.

To sustain peak performance, we must continuously recharge our energy systems. Just as machines need fuel and maintenance, our bodies need proper rest, nutrition, exposure to sunlight, and physical activity to operate at their best. Chronobiology emphasizes the critical role of circadian rhythms, and when these are aligned with natural cycles—enhanced by regular sunlight exposure—our energy levels, cognitive function, and overall health are optimized.

As the world grows more complex, we must recognize that we are designed to adapt, evolve, and thrive. Science is only beginning to unlock the full potential of human beings, but one thing is clear: we are capable of greatness. Understanding ourselves is the key to unlocking that greatness. As we continue to explore the boundaries of human capability, we ensure not only our own progression but the advancement of humanity as a whole.

Let us embrace the scientific marvel that we are—nurture our bodies, energize our minds, recharge with sunlight, and optimize the systems within. In doing so, we will push the boundaries of human potential and enhance the world with every step forward.

Let’s explore the profound transformations that have occurred. and the messages they convey for nations, governments, societies, communities, families & individuals.

1. Healthcare and Public Health

COVID-19 exposed the vulnerabilities in global healthcare systems, supply chains, and crisis management strategies. The pandemic underscored the importance of robust public health infrastructure, timely data sharing, and international cooperation. Telemedicine emerged as a critical tool, allowing patients to receive care without risking exposure.

Learning - Strengthen public health systems and prioritize preventive care. Encourage community health initiatives and support mental health services to address the psychological impact of the pandemic.

2. Economic and Business Transformations

The pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of businesses. Remote work, once a niche practice, became the norm for millions. Companies had to adapt quickly, investing in digital infrastructure and rethinking traditional business models. This shift has led to increased productivity for some, but also highlighted the digital divide, with many workers lacking access to necessary technology.

Learning - Invest in digital infrastructure and ensure equitable access to technology. Support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their digital transformation to foster economic resilience.

3. Education and Learning

The shift to online learning was one of the most significant changes in the education sector. While it enabled continuity of education, it also highlighted disparities in access to technology and the internet. Students and educators had to adapt to new modes of teaching and learning, which brought both challenges and opportunities.

Learning -  Bridge the digital divide in education. Invest in digital literacy programs and provide resources to ensure all students have access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background.

4. Social Interactions and Community Life

Social distancing measures and lockdowns transformed how we interact with each other. Virtual gatherings became commonplace, and people found new ways to stay connected. However, the lack of physical interaction also led to increased feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Learning - Foster a sense of community through both virtual and in-person interactions. Support initiatives that promote social cohesion and mental well-being.

5. Work-Life Balance and Family Structures

The blurring of boundaries between work and home life brought new challenges. While remote work offered flexibility, it also made it difficult for many to disconnect from work. Family dynamics shifted as parents juggled work and childcare responsibilities.

Learning -  Promote work-life balance by setting clear boundaries and encouraging flexible work arrangements. Support employees with family responsibilities through policies such as parental leave and childcare support.

6. Environmental Impact

The pandemic led to a temporary reduction in pollution and greenhouse gas emissions due to decreased industrial activity and travel. This highlighted the potential for significant environmental improvements if sustainable practices are adopted.

Learning -  Leverage the lessons learned during the pandemic to promote sustainable practices. Invest in green technologies and policies that reduce environmental impact and combat climate change.

7. Global Cooperation and Governance

The pandemic underscored the importance of global cooperation in addressing transnational challenges. International organizations played a crucial role in coordinating responses and sharing information. However, the crisis also revealed gaps in global governance and the need for more effective collaboration.

Learning - Strengthen international cooperation and governance structures. Foster a collaborative approach to global challenges, ensuring that all nations have a voice in decision-making processes.

8. Personal Growth and Resilience

On a personal level, the pandemic forced individuals to adapt and find resilience in the face of uncertainty. Many people re-evaluated their priorities, focusing more on health, family, and personal well-being. The crisis also spurred acts of kindness and solidarity, as communities came together to support those in need.

Learning -  Embrace the lessons of resilience and adaptability. Prioritize mental and physical health, and cultivate a supportive network of family and friends.

A Changed World for us all

The long-term implications of the COVID-19 pandemic are still unfolding, but several key trends are emerging. The experience has underscored the importance of robust healthcare systems and the need for ongoing investment in public health infrastructure. Governments and organizations are likely to prioritize preparedness for future pandemics, learning from the lessons of COVID-19 to enhance resilience.

The acceleration of digital transformation is another lasting impact. Remote work, online education, and telemedicine are expected to remain integral parts of society, driving further innovation and changing the way people live and work. The gig economy and e-commerce will continue to expand, reshaping labour markets and consumer behaviour.

Socially, the pandemic has highlighted the importance of mental health and well-being. There is a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive mental health services and support systems to address the psychological impact of crises. The emphasis on community support and mutual aid is likely to persist, fostering stronger social bonds and collective resilience.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic time has been hugely impactful across the globe. It has highlighted the interconnectedness of our world and the need for collective action to address shared challenges. While the challenges have been immense, they have also paved the way for innovation, resilience, and a renewed sense of global solidarity. As we move forward, let us not forget the lessons learned, and put in all our efforts now to develop a more resilient, equitable, and prepared world.  Nations, governments, communities, and individuals must work together to ensure that the transformations brought about by the pandemic lead to a better future for all. Together, we can turn the scars of the past into the stepping stones of a brighter future.

Let’s assess the four key pressing issues involved & their trends for a clearer & better understanding where we have to look at.  

1. Non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are now the leading causes of death globally. According to the World Health Organization, such NCDs account for 71% of all deaths worldwide equating to 41 M people, with cardiovascular diseases alone responsible for 17.9 million deaths annually. It is estimated that by 2030, the NCDs will cost the global economy some 47T $ due to healthcare cost and lost productivity. The rise in NCDs is closely linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, tobacco & Alcohol consumption etc.

2. Despite significant progress, infectious diseases remain a critical concern. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the devastating impact of infectious diseases on global health and economies. As of now & as per estimates, COVID-19 has caused over 6.8 million deaths and disrupted countless lives & livelihoods worldwide. Other infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, continue to pose significant health threats, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. 38M people are living with HIV and 6.9L are dying every year because of it. Tuberculosis had 1.5M fatalities in 2020 – despite being preventable and curable. 

3. Mental health issues are on the rise globally and have been further aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO reports that depression affects over 264 million people worldwide, and suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds with 8L suicides reported every year. Mental health conditions are often un-reported, underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to significant social and economic impacts. Mental health conditions account for 14% of the global burden of disease but receive less than 1% of many countries' health budgets. In low- and middle-income countries, the economic burden of mental health conditions is estimated to exceed 1 trillion $ annually in lost productivity.

4. Health inequalities & disparities persist, between and within countries. There is a stark difference of up to 18 years in life expectancy between high-income and low-income countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, the average life expectancy is 64 years, compared to 81 years in high-income countries. The maternal mortality rate in low-income countries is 462 per 100,000 live births, compared to 11 per 100,000 in high-income countries. Over 800 million people worldwide spend at least 10% of their household budget on healthcare, driving 100 million people into extreme poverty annually. In sub-Saharan Africa, only 52% of births are attended by skilled health personnel, compared to nearly 100% in high-income countries. Malnutrition costs the global economy 3.5 trillion $ per year, including losses in productivity and direct healthcare costs. Social determinants of health, including education, income, and access to healthcare, significantly influence health outcomes.

Having looked at the above four areas and issues, let’s examine their impact –

There are three main impact areas broadly.

1. Economic Burden: The economic burden of global health issues is immense. NCDs are projected to cost the global economy $47 trillion by 2030 due to healthcare costs and lost productivity. The COVID-19 pandemic alone is estimated to have caused a global economic loss of $28 trillion over 2020-2025. Investing in health is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity.

2. Social and Political Stability: Health crises can lead to social unrest and political instability. The Ebola outbreak in West Africa (2014-2016) highlighted how health emergencies can disrupt societies and economies, leading to political instability. Recent COVID19 pandemic impact across the globe has been simply brutal in terms of lives, livelihoods and worldwide misery as a result. Effective health systems are crucial for maintaining social and political stability.

3. Humanity & Human Development: Health is a fundamental component of life & human development. Poor health outcomes hinder educational attainment, reduce productivity, and limit economic opportunities. Poor health is a barrier to education, with sick children missing significant amounts of school. For example, in low-income countries, approximately 40% of children aged 5-17 are affected by chronic health conditions that impede their educational attainment. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), improving health could increase economic growth rates by as much as 1.4% per year. Ensuring good health for all is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting human development.

Since above issues and their impacts are widely visible & known, but still they continue to exist, obviously there must be compelling challenges to deal with them. Let’s examine these so that we can then think about our way forward afresh.

1. Effective global health governance is essential, and the first basic requirement for a coordinated response to health challenges which are global in nature. However, fragmentation and lack of coordination among international health organizations can impede efforts. Fragmented global health governance can lead to inefficiencies. For example, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of coordination among countries and organizations delayed the global response, aggravating the crisis. The 2005 International Health Regulations (IHR) are not fully implemented or adhered to by many countries, reducing the effectiveness of global health responses. Re-designing if required & Strengthening global health governance structures is absolutely necessary for a cohesive and effective response. A hard look is thus necessary starting from UN & WHO downwards towards each Nation. Re-energizing this has to be the start point.

2. Weak health systems are a significant barrier to addressing global health issues. Many countries, particularly in low-income regions, lack the infrastructure, workforce, and resources needed to provide comprehensive healthcare services. In many low-income countries, there are fewer than 2 doctors per 10,000 people, compared to over 30 per 10,000 in high-income countries. According to the WHO, 400 million people lack access to essential health services, highlighting the need for stronger health systems. Strengthening health systems is crucial for effective disease prevention and management. It is the second urgent priority therefore to define benchmarks related to systems requirement which each Nation has to adhere to under International governance & supervision.

3. Adequate funding and efficient resource allocation are critical for addressing the issues. However, many health systems face chronic underfunding, and resources are often not allocated equitably. Global health spending is uneven, with high-income countries spending an average of $4,300 per person on health each year, compared to $40 per person in low-income countries. The WHO estimates that an additional $370 billion per year is needed to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) by 2030.  Investing in health infrastructure is crucial. For instance, the Global Health Security Agenda estimates that strengthening health systems in low-income countries could save 10 million lives per year. Universal Health Coverage (UHC) has the potential to prevent 8 million deaths per year in low- and middle-income countries by 2030.

Committed financing mechanisms and efficient use of the available resources, are needed. Innovative thinking itself would provide further answers to bridge the gaps wherever they are identified.

4. The health workforce is the backbone of any health system. However, many countries face shortages of healthcare workers, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The world faces a projected shortfall of 18 million health workers by 2030, primarily in low- and middle-income countries. In Africa, there is only one nurse or midwife per 1,000 people, compared to 10 per 1,000 in Europe. Investing in health workforce education, training, and retention is vital for addressing health challenges. A competent & capable health- workforce is critical to successfully lead the big mission.

The Way Forward: An Action Plan

Ten-point approach –

1. Relook at, and strengthen the existing Global institutions & their worldwide infrastructure and remodel them if required in terms of competency, capability and leadership so that they are able to provide comprehensive and effective governance on global health mission which should be re-established on the lines of ‘Paris Climate agreement’ setting bench marks and targets for each country and the world as a whole.

2. Each Nation’s Government, must commit politically & economically for improving the health of its Citizenry in a planned and transparent manner by setting its policies, infrastructure & resources in place on a time scale, and define a 5year route map for GDP% age allocation towards this mission.

3. Under International supervision, willingly supported by the respective National agencies, each Nations existing health infrastructure must be audited with respect to a minimum standard international bench mark criteria so that the shortfalls can be identified and addressed systematically and transparently in a fixed time frame.

4. Universal health coverage for all – must be declared as a global health mission with its objectives well defined for every nation – providing access to essential health services without financial hardship. Each Nation must then innovatively take this forward with transparent reporting. UHC has the potential to prevent 8M deaths per year in low and middle income countries by 2030.

5. Investing in health infrastructure is crucial. For instance, the Global Health Security Agenda estimates that strengthening health systems in low-income countries could save 10 million lives per year. Public-private collaboration supported by national policies should be crystalized by each nation and implemented. Best practices world around should be shared.

6. A fresh look and assessment must be taken on Global health funds. Strengthening them and creating new financing mechanisms to support critical health initiatives, should be worked out and implemented fairly and equitably. Just for example, Global fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria has saved 38 million lives since its inception in 2002. This shows the impact of such Funds & the involved initiatives.  Public – private partnerships should get leveraged fully to mobilize additional resources and expertise. Just for information, Gavi, the global partnership & alliance, has immunized over 888 M children and has prevented more than 15M deaths since 2000 by keeping the routine immunization programs running globally specially in poor countries. 

7. National & Global coordination mechanisms & accountability frame works should be audited fresh so as to understand the level of their true effectiveness and relevance to face future missions & their challenges with transparency, fairness and timely support being the defined operational benchmarks.  They must be able to timely assess every country’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats & emergencies.

8. A sharper focus must emerge on Health care workforce & their working systems & HR policies– their education, training, compensation, career development pathways, equipment needs etc – both for routine & emergency response arenas - as they are the true change makers on the ground. We have witnessed this during the recent pandemic. Every nation, must look at framing fresh required uniform polices so that the adequacy does not get compromised nor their ability to get deployed where there is a real need. 

9. Health research & innovation needs a dynamic fresh push and renewed worldwide coordination & collaboration involving and integrating each and every institution. Development of new treatments & vaccines, standardizing protocols, sharing research findings and promoting technologies, Data and predictive analytics sharing, helping in framing health policies & decisions based on evidence based findings etc. can speedily & dramatically improve health outcomes in terms of improving disease prevention and management.

10.Global health mission needs to be looked at from a new lens now. Well integrated Multi-sectoral approaches are essential to address social detriments of health, including education, housing and employment. Communities need to be engaged in health initiatives ensuring that interventions are culturally appropriate and effective. Holistic health covering mental, physical & emotional aspects must remain at the centre of every health initiative towards human welfare and wellbeing. 

Conclusion

Ladies and gentlemen in conclusion, the four global health issues, their three clear impacts, their four resultant challenges and articulated agenda of 10 points way forward that we have talked about today, not only highlights the urgency of addressing global health issues with comprehensive, well-coordinated, and adequately funded strategies but also clearly outlines the need of enhancing global health governance, strengthening health systems & services, investing in the health workforce, promoting research and innovation, and addressing social determinants of health – all together & holistically. Taking this forward can help make significant strides towards a healthier, more equitable world – a critical need of the hour.

The time for action is now.

Very best wishes.  Thank you.