Focus on Drug Regulation and Patient Safety
Emphasising the critical role of drug regulation, Shri Nadda underlined the need for continuous monitoring of the entire pharmaceutical supply chain, from manufacturing to distribution. He stressed that strict compliance and regulatory supervision must be treated as a continuous mission to ensure patient safety and public trust.
The Union Health Minister urged both States to adopt best practices in regulatory enforcement and strengthen institutional mechanisms to prevent gaps in quality control.
Strengthening Free Drugs and Diagnostics
Reviewing the implementation of Free Drugs and Free Diagnostics schemes, Shri Nadda directed Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to improve supply-chain efficiency and close monitoring gaps. He informed that the Union Health Ministry is working with IIM Ahmedabad to strengthen logistics, transparency and accountability in procurement systems.
He highlighted that quality diagnostics and timely testing form the backbone of effective healthcare delivery and must be strengthened at primary, secondary and tertiary care levels.
Telemedicine and Professional Hospital Management
Highlighting technology-driven healthcare solutions, the Union Health Minister said telemedicine has emerged as an effective tool to expand access to specialist care, particularly in remote and underserved regions. He encouraged deeper integration of telemedicine platforms into routine healthcare delivery.
Shri Nadda also stressed the need for professional hospital administration, noting that while doctors lead clinical care, regulatory compliance and hospital management require dedicated expertise. Special attention was laid on regulation of blood banks, hospital safety protocols and institutional governance.
Mission-Mode Push for TB Elimination
Reiterating the national goal of eliminating tuberculosis by 2027, Shri Nadda called for district-specific strategies with intensified screening, robust diagnostics, treatment adherence and nutritional support. He said TB elimination must be pursued in a mission mode with close monitoring at district and block levels.
The Minister emphasised coordinated action among health officials, local administration and community stakeholders to ensure measurable outcomes.
Jan Bhagidari and Legislative Engagement
To strengthen accountability and public participation, Shri Nadda proposed sensitisation workshops for MLAs, urging them to actively engage with Block Medical Officers and Chief Medical Officers through regular reviews. He highlighted that Jan Bhagidari is essential for improving healthcare outcomes and building public confidence.
Centre–State Cooperation Strengthened
Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Rajendra Shukla, and Chhattisgarh Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal assured full cooperation with the Union Health Ministry to strengthen implementation and outcomes.
The Union Health Minister reiterated central support through National Health Mission interventions, PPP models, expansion of medical education, viability gap funding and infrastructure support. He also assured technical training and hand-holding to Chhattisgarh, particularly for strengthening leprosy management.
