Rajnath Singh Stresses AI Solutions for Cardiovascular & Diabetes Challenges in Defense Forces

Singh noted that maintaining the health of defense personnel is crucial, as they often operate under extreme conditions, making them susceptible to health risks, including war injuries and operational stress.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) and modern technology in addressing health challenges such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes among defense personnel.

Speaking at the Cardiological Society of India (CSI) fellowship convocation ceremony 2024 in Lucknow, Singh emphasized the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance healthcare in the armed forces.

Singh noted that maintaining the health of defense personnel is crucial, as they often operate under extreme conditions, making them susceptible to health risks, including war injuries and operational stress.

Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes have been identified as significant concerns, requiring periodic review and intervention.

AI-powered tools, he said, could revolutionize healthcare delivery by enhancing risk prediction, personalizing treatments, and optimizing clinical decision-making, particularly in preventive cardiology.

“AI has the potential to extend the reach of preventive cardiology to larger segments of the population, enabling efficient screening, early identification of high-risk individuals, and customized preventive strategies,” Singh stated, underlining the government's focus on modernizing healthcare for defense forces.

The Defence Minister shared that the government has allocated INR 6.2 lakh crore in the 2024–25 Union Budget for the overall upkeep of the armed forces.

This budget encompasses capacity building, the induction of advanced technology, and enhanced healthcare services.

Singh stressed that the integration of cutting-edge technology would not only improve health outcomes but also ensure the readiness of defense personnel.

Nationwide Efforts to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases

Singh also discussed the broader implications of the government’s initiatives in combating diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, which he called "twin threats" to public health.

He highlighted several government schemes, including Ayushman Bharat, the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), and the PM Jan Arogya Yojana, aimed at creating a healthier nation.

“The government is not only working to treat these diseases but also to prevent them. Since 2014, we have focused on eradicating these threats and preventing their spread through public health initiatives,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to making India a healthier nation by integrating AI and other advanced technologies into healthcare systems.

He noted that these measures align with the larger vision of ensuring the well-being of not only the armed forces but also the general population.

With AI and technology leading the way, the government is committed to safeguarding the health of our forces and the nation.

Stay tuned for more such updates on Digital Health News.