Kochi recently became the focal point for a significant annual review meeting concerning India’s Points of Entry (PoEs). This important gathering, collaboratively organized by the Port Health Organisation (PHO) Cochin and the Airport Health Organisation (APHO), kicked off on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
The primary objective of this summit is to evaluate the advancements made in technical initiatives and infrastructural developments under the ambitious Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission. A key focus will be on resolving administrative challenges currently faced across the numerous Points of Entry nationwide.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Rekha Raikar Kumar, Member (Finance) of the Land Ports Authority of India, who served as the Chief Guest. Other notable attendees included Gurkaran Singh Bains, Commissioner of Customs House, Cochin; Satish Honnakkatte, Deputy Chairman of Cochin Port Authority; Manu G., Airport Director of Cochin International Airport Limited; and Dr. Asha Devi, District Medical Officer for Ernakulam.
These critical Points of Entry act as India’s primary defense mechanism against a spectrum of public health threats, ranging from chemical and biological to radiological-nuclear hazards. Their vital role involves meticulously preventing the cross-border transmission of diseases via passengers, vehicles, and cargo, thereby ensuring national health security. Currently, India operates 43 such Points of Entry nationwide, as confirmed by official reports.