Government’s Expanding Healthcare Network
Speaking about India’s healthcare progress, the President noted that the Government of India has undertaken several transformative initiatives over the past decade. More than 1.8 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are delivering primary healthcare services across urban and rural India.
Under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana — the world’s largest government-funded health insurance scheme — nearly 12 crore families receive coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year for hospitalisation. These measures have significantly reduced the financial burden on vulnerable sections of society.
National health programmes such as Mission Indradhanush, the TB-Free India campaign, and the Sickle Cell Anaemia Eradication Mission are also contributing to disease prevention and public health protection.
Strengthening Medical Education and Infrastructure
The President underlined that increasing the number of doctors and healthcare professionals remains crucial. The number of MBBS and postgraduate medical seats has expanded considerably in recent years to improve the availability of skilled practitioners.
New AIIMS institutions and medical colleges have been established in several states, enhancing access to advanced medical care. These efforts, she said, are yielding positive results in strengthening India’s healthcare delivery system.
Golden Hour and Emergency Care
Emphasising emergency response, the President said that providing proper treatment within the “golden hour” can save most accident victims. She highlighted that financial assistance schemes ensure cashless treatment of up to ₹1.5 lakh for road accident victims.
She stressed the importance of awareness alongside infrastructure such as ambulances and trauma centres. Public education on emergency response can significantly improve survival rates in critical situations.
Role of Technology and AI in Healthcare
The President noted that technology and artificial intelligence are playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery. From diagnostics to treatment planning, AI-enabled tools are transforming patient care.
The IndiaAI Mission is fostering innovation and encouraging the adoption of AI solutions in healthcare and other sectors. She urged institutions to prepare for the growing integration of advanced technologies in medical services.
Make in India for Affordable Healthcare
India is among the world’s leading pharmaceutical producers, supplying medicines globally. However, the country continues to depend on imports for several medical devices and certain critical drugs, which can increase costs for patients.
The President said initiatives such as Make in India and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme are helping boost domestic manufacturing of medicines and medical equipment. She encouraged the medical fraternity and industry leaders to invest in research, innovation, and start-ups to strengthen India’s healthcare ecosystem.
Healthy Citizens, Strong Nation
Linking healthcare with national development, the President said that healthy citizens form the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation. Achieving the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 requires universal access to quality healthcare.
She reiterated that the health of citizens is a shared responsibility involving government agencies, hospitals, private institutions, medical professionals, and society at large. The ‘Saving Lives and Building a Healthier Bharat’ campaign, she said, reflects this collaborative spirit.
Expressing confidence in India’s progress, the President said that collective efforts will not only ensure affordable world-class healthcare for all but also enhance India’s standing as a global healthcare destination.
