Gujarat CM Bats for AI Integration in Healthcare, Inaugurates Robotic Surgery Centre in Ahmedabad

The Chief Minister highlighted the rapidly growing use of AI tools such as digital ICUs, telemedicine, and clinical decision support systems. 

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday emphasized the state's commitment to embracing emerging medical technologies and highlighted the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming healthcare delivery. 

Speaking at the virtual inauguration of the 'Center of Excellence in Robotic Gastrointestinal Surgery' at Kaizen Hospital in Ahmedabad, CM Patel reaffirmed the government's support for integrating AI into Gujarat's healthcare infrastructure.

Robotic Surgery Gains Momentum in Gujarat

Kaizen Hospital marked a major milestone by becoming the first hospital in India to perform over 100 robotic gastrointestinal (GI) surgeries successfully. 

CM Patel lauded the achievement and congratulated Dr. Sanjiv Haribhakti and his team for setting a benchmark in minimally invasive surgery. 

He noted that Gujarat has been at the forefront of medical technology adoption since Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced robotic surgery to the state as early as 2013.

The Chief Minister added that the launch of the CyberKnife—a robotic linear accelerator machine—at the state-run cancer hospital with an investment of INR 95 crore and the initiation of robotic surgery services at U.N. Mehta Hospital in 2022 were key milestones in Gujarat's healthcare advancement.

AI in Healthcare: From Innovation to Impact

CM Patel called for a broader integration of artificial intelligence into medical systems, "Now is the time to embed AI into the healthcare sector. Gujarat has laid the foundation for this transformation by enabling AI applications at various stages of the healthcare ecosystem."

The Chief Minister highlighted the rapidly growing use of AI tools such as digital ICUs, telemedicine, and clinical decision support systems. 

These technologies have enabled timely and accurate diagnosis, reduced treatment times, and extended medical services to underserved and remote regions. 

Patel pointed to the AI-powered digital ICU launched at U.N. Mehta Hospital as an example of the state's commitment to next-generation healthcare.

Support for Healthcare Startups & AI Innovation

Acknowledging the central government's role in accelerating healthcare innovations, CM Patel credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fostering an environment prioritizing affordable and futuristic healthcare. 

He said, "When the Prime Minister meets AI experts or startup innovators, he always emphasizes practical solutions for healthcare challenges. This vision has led to the creation of the AI Center of Excellence at GIFT City, which now actively supports healthcare-focused startups."

The Chief Minister also cited the dramatic increase in the number of medical colleges and seats in the country as evidence of India's growing medical infrastructure. 

"From 319 medical colleges a few years ago, the number has now grown to 703. MBBS and postgraduate medical seats have nearly doubled from 85,000 to 1.68 lakh. There are currently 22 operational AIIMS institutes across the nation," he added.

Advocating Preventive Healthcare & Healthy Living

Shifting focus from technology to lifestyle, CM Patel stressed the importance of preventive healthcare. 

"We must return to a nature-based lifestyle. Prevention is better than cure," he said while invoking Prime Minister Modi's "Nine Resolutions" aimed at promoting holistic well-being and environmental sustainability.

These resolutions include Save Water, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (One Tree in Mother's Name), Cleanliness, Vocal for Local, Desh Darshan (Discover India), Natural Farming, Healthy Lifestyle, Yoga and Sports, and Support for the Poor.

Patel urged citizens to adopt these principles for a healthier life and a better planet.

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