India led the Indian Delegation 2nd World Local Production Forum (WLPF)

Shri Bhagwant Khuba, Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, will lead an Indian team to the 2nd World Local Production Forum (WLPF) in the Hague, Netherlands which  is an initiative of the World Health Organisation (WHO). The event will take place from November 6 to 8, 2023. This platform will continue to foster lively debates, exchange best practices, and provide practical suggestions.

MoI Signed during the Visit

• India and the Netherlands are expected to sign a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) on cooperation in the sphere of medical product regulation. 
• In addition, the Minister will visit the European Medicines Agency. 
• He will also travel to Eindhoven to participate in Shrigandha Holland Kannada Balaga's Kannada Rajyotsava 2023 celebrations.

What is the World Local Production Platform?

• The World Local Production Platform was established at the request of the World Health Organisation.
• It aims to make medications and other medical technology more widely available. 
• The WLPF Secretariat's Local Production and Assistance (LPA) Unit collaborates closely with the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
• The 2nd WLPF is intended to bring together up to 800 high-level participants from various industries. 
• This forum provides a regular venue for Member States and the global community to establish strategies and collective action.

First World Local Production Forum (WLPF)

• The first World Local Production Forum (WLPF) was conducted virtually from June 21 to 25, 2021. 
• The inaugural of WLPF, WHO concluded today discussions focused on boosting quality and sustainable local production.
• It was opened by the Director General of WHO, as well as the directors general of other UN organizations and ministers from several member countries. 

About World Health Organization (WHO)

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) is an intergovernmental body that collaborates with its member countries, typically through the Ministries of Health. 
• It began operations on April 7, 1948, which is today recognised as World Health Day.
• There are 194 countries represented, 150 national offices, and six regional offices.
• The WHO Country Office for India is based in Delhi and has a presence throughout the country. 
• Headquarters- Geneva, Switzerland.