Current Context : The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) received the prestigious 2024 UN Inter-Agency Task Force (UNIATF) Award for its extensive efforts in combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving mental health outcomes in India.

• This award acknowledges ICMR’s contributions towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in health and well-being.

About Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs):

• NCDs are chronic diseases not passed from person to person. They include cardiovascular diseases (heart attacks and strokes), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (like asthma), and diabetes.
• Global Impact: NCDs are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally, leading to significant health and economic challenges.