Health Minister Paudel Highlights Nepal’s Progress and Challenges at UN Health Commission Session

Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel addressed the 58th session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development in New York on Monday, where he outlined Nepal’s achievements in the health sector and appealed for greater international support.

In his remarks, Minister Paudel noted Nepal’s significant progress over the past three decades in reducing child and maternal mortality. He also highlighted a decline in child marriage and increased access to family planning services as notable milestones in the country’s public health journey.

“Nepal remains committed to ensuring quality health services for all its citizens,” Minister Paudel stated, adding that government efforts alone are not sufficient to meet these goals. He emphasized the importance of continued international cooperation and solidarity to sustain and improve health outcomes.

The minister drew attention to ongoing challenges in Nepal’s health sector, including budgetary constraints and inadequate infrastructure in remote areas, which limit access to healthcare. He also raised concerns about the adverse impacts of climate change, which he said threaten to undermine gains already achieved.

According to a statement from his private secretariat, Minister Paudel urged the global community to increase foreign assistance to help Nepal tackle pressing health sector challenges and build resilience in the face of emerging risks.