PM Modi dubs polio-elimination as 'historic achievement'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described the total elimination of polio from the county as a 'historic accomplishment' and added that India has always supported global efforts on issues of child and maternal health.

"A truly historic accomplishment has been the victory over Polio...I am also happy to share with you today another major milestone achieved by India. India has eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus... India has always partnered with the global efforts on issues of child and maternal health," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing at the inauguration of the 'Global Call to Action Summit 2015.

"I am glad to see 24 nations present here to join together in their commitment to end preventable maternal and child death... Our Government has added to the world's largest immunization drive another mission known as "Mission Indradhanush," he added.

The Prime Minister further welcomed the delegates attending the summit, and said that it provides a highly effective platform to address common challenges.

"I warmly welcome you to the Global Call to Action Summit 2015...For the first time the Global Call to Action Summit is being held outside USA..This Summit will provide a highly effective platform to address common challenges that will help us achieve desired goals," he said.