Written by : Jayati Dubey
February 5, 2024
The Minister cited momentous growth in health facilities, including adding 16 new AIIMS institutes providing free treatment to the economically disadvantaged.
In a recent development, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, laid the foundation stone for 68 health services for AIIMS Jodhpur. The Minister also inaugurated 24 health facilities across multiple AIIMS locations, including Bilaspur, Rishikesh, Gorakhpur, Nagpur, Bhubaneshwar, and Deoghar.
While delivering the keynote address at the 4th convocation in AIIMS Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Dr Mandaviya highlighted the critical importance of timely access to critical care services in emergency situations.
He noted that the availability of such services in major diseases could save many lives, emphasising the role of hospitals as "temples of medicine" and urging doctors to fulfil their responsibilities in serving patients.
Dr Mandaviya and Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan, jointly inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several health projects, including:
-5 Sub-Health Centres under the National Health Mission
-63 projects of the National Health Mission civil wing under the 15th Finance Commission
-Upgradation of SMS Medical College, Jaipur, under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana, which will host divisions such as cardiology, neurology, nephrology, neuro-surgery, and medical gerontology
These projects are funded under the Prime Minister-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, aiming to enhance healthcare accessibility and availability.
The Minister commended the expansion and improvement of medical education, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Ayushman Bharat. The goal is to make healthcare facilities affordable, accessible, and available to every citizen while maintaining consistent quality standards.
Dr Mandaviya cited momentous growth in health facilities, including the addition of 16 new AIIMS institutes providing free treatment to the economically disadvantaged. Over 1,60,000 Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs have been established, adopting a preventative and holistic approach involving screening, lifestyle education, and wellness components.
The Minister emphasised initiatives such as the Sickle Cell Elimination Program and the TB Free India campaign. These programs aim to address major health challenges in the country, aligning with the overarching goal of achieving Ayushman Bharat.
He further acknowledged the government’s initiative towards leveraging digital mediums to ensure health services reach the last mile. Initiatives including eSanjeevni and Tele-MANAS provide connectivity and consultancy to doctors, saving time and money for patients.
Praising the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bhajan Lal Sharma lauded the proactive approach to health, acknowledging the significant change for the benefit of all. He highlighted the transformative impact on the accessibility and availability of healthcare services.
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, applauding the impact of the health initiatives, said, "The transformation taking place in India has a meaningful impact on the whole world, and we must strive to strengthen our medical and health infrastructure to serve our nation and the world at our best capacity.
The initiatives and developments highlighted during the event reflect a diplomatic and collaborative approach to healthcare. By emphasising global impact and collaboration, India seeks to position itself as a leader in health infrastructure and medical education, aligning with international standards and aspirations.
The commitment to Ayushman Bharat and the integration of digital technologies showcase a forward-looking strategy for comprehensive healthcare.
In a similar development, Dr Mandaviya unveiled health facilities worth INR 1,140 Cr at four central government hospitals in Delhi. The new facilities are tailored to address diverse medical requirements such as accident & emergency services, disaster management, surgeries, intensive care, dialysis, and specialised treatments.
This initiative is a pivotal component of an extensive development plan aimed at offering 24/7 medical care, encompassing a range of diagnostic tests and procedures, all under one roof.