Asha Hegde has taken on the role of Interim Country Director for PATH India and Hub Director, South Asia, marking a new leadership responsibility for the public health professional.
Announcing the appointment, Hegde said her immediate focus would be on continuity, collaboration and building for the future. She expressed her intention to work closely with PATH’s partners and colleagues to strengthen ongoing programmes and advance shared priorities.
In her new role, Hegde will work across PATH’s public health initiatives in India and the wider South Asian region. She highlighted the importance of collaboration with governments, communities, civil society organisations, academic institutions, donors and other partners to address challenges in the health sector.
Hegde said India’s public health landscape presents both significant challenges and opportunities, adding that strengthening health systems, encouraging innovation and expanding access to quality healthcare would remain important areas of focus.
She also acknowledged the partnerships that support PATH’s work and expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her as she begins the new assignment.
The appointment comes as public health organisations continue to focus on strengthening healthcare systems, improving access to essential services and building partnerships to address emerging health challenges across India and South Asia.

