WHO regrets U.S. decision to withdraw from organization
Geneva/Washington: The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over the United States' decision to withdraw from the global health body, following an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on his first day in office.
The executive order, one of several signed upon Trump's return to the White House, formally initiated the process of pulling the U.S. out of the WHO. The order cited "unfairly onerous payments" made by the U.S. to the organization, as well as the WHO’s alleged mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health crises. It also pointed to concerns over the agency’s failure to implement reforms and its perceived susceptibility to political influence from certain member states.
In response, the WHO released a statement underscoring its role in global health, highlighting its efforts in combating diseases, strengthening health systems, and addressing health emergencies. The organization emphasized the U.S.'s long-standing involvement, noting that it has been a founding member since 1948 and actively participated in its governance.
"For over seven decades, WHO and the USA have saved countless lives and protected Americans and all people from health threats," the statement read. "Together, we ended smallpox, and together we have brought polio to the brink of eradication."
The WHO acknowledged that reforms to improve its accountability and effectiveness are already underway, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening global health governance.
Despite the U.S. decision, the organization expressed hope that the move would be reconsidered and emphasized its willingness to maintain a productive partnership with the country.
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Elephant calf brought from Bijnor kept under care at Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
Pilibhit (PTI): A 19-day-old elephant calf, brought from Bijnor, was placed under care at the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR) on Sunday, an official said and added that the calf got separated from its mother in the forest area of Bijnor.
The calf was born on December 2 in the Bijnor forest area and got separated from its mother shortly after birth, the official said.
The forest department made several attempts to reunite it with its mother, but without any success. To ensure the calf's safety and better care, it was decided to transfer it to the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve on the instructions of senior officials.
On Saturday, Deputy Director Manish Singh received the calf. Special arrangements have been made in the reserve for its care. It has been kept in a safe and clean environment to provide it with a natural setting and protect it from external noise and disturbances.
Singh told reporters that raising an 19-day-old calf is challenging.
It requires a special diet as a substitute for mother's milk and constant monitoring.
He said a special team has been formed to provide 24-hour care. Since the calf is very young, it is being cared for like a newborn baby.
According to Singh, the primary responsibility for monitoring the calf's health has been entrusted to PTR's veterinarian, Dr Daksh Gangwar. Under his supervision, a complete record of the calf's health checkups, diet, and body temperature is being maintained. The team is ensuring that the calf does not contract any infection.
