South India Leads India’s Medical Tourism Drive
Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Dr. L Murugan recently called attention to South India’s growing prominence in health tourism. Speaking at the 14th convocation of the SUT Academy of Medical Sciences in Thiruvananthapuram, he stated that cities like Chennai, Kochi, Coimbatore, and Bengaluru are becoming global medical destinations.
He attributed this boom to the strengthening of India’s health infrastructure and the increasing global trust in Indian medical expertise.
Dr. Murugan highlighted India’s phenomenal rise in healthcare capacity. He said the number of medical colleges in India has almost doubled from 387 in 2014 to over 750 in 2025. This rapid expansion reflects India’s resolve to produce more skilled healthcare professionals.
At the grassroots level, Primary Health Centers have been upgraded to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, ensuring accessible healthcare in rural areas.
Ayushman Bharat: Reaching the Poorest
Touching upon India’s ambitious health coverage initiative, the Minister noted that Ayushman Bharat has covered over 10.4 crore families. This translates to nearly 50 crore beneficiaries eligible for ₹5 lakh insurance coverage each year.
He emphasized the government’s allocation of ₹1.23 lakh crore to the health sector in FY 2025 alone, bringing the 10-year spending total to ₹10 lakh crore.
India Shines Globally with ‘Heal in India’
According to Dr. Murugan, India’s global medical credibility is evident through the ‘Heal in India’ initiative. Foreign nationals increasingly seek medical procedures in Indian hospitals known for world-class quality and affordability.
South India, with its superior medical institutions and trained professionals, is leading this health tourism wave. Patients from across Asia, Africa, and even Europe now choose India for treatments ranging from surgeries to holistic healing.
From Missions Abroad to Self-Reliance at Home
The Minister also praised India’s foreign rescue operations — Operation Ganga, Cauvery, and Sindhu — which brought back thousands of stranded citizens from global conflict zones.
He referenced Operation Sindoor, which showcased India’s defense preparedness and indigenous technologies against terrorism. According to him, this reflects India’s pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat — self-reliant India.
A Vision for 2047: Developed India
Dr. Murugan expressed strong confidence that India will become a developed nation by 2047. He pointed out ongoing improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and diplomacy, all contributing to this vision.
He also celebrated India’s role in vaccine development and distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that India’s vaccine diplomacy saved millions of lives globally.
SUT Convocation: Celebrating Young Healers
During the event, Dr. Murugan distributed graduation certificates to the newly qualified doctors from Sree Uthradam Thirunal Academy. He praised their dedication and emphasized the importance of compassion and excellence in their future careers.
The function was presided over by Dr. A.C. Shanmukham, Chairman of SUT Academy. Also present was Dr. Rajan Khobragade, Additional Chief Secretary of Kerala’s Health Department.
Conclusion: India’s Health Sector Marches Forward
India’s healthcare transformation is not just numbers — it’s saving lives, attracting global attention, and inspiring young doctors. From rural clinics to global hospitals, the Indian medical ecosystem is thriving.
With initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Heal in India, and rapid infrastructure development, India — especially South India — is well on its way to becoming the global capital of healthcare excellence.