The Vice President inaugurated the KMCH Institute of Neurosciences and OPD Block, along with the KMCH Medical College Postgraduate Institute, at the Kovai Medical Center and Hospital. He later presided as Chief Guest at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Sri Ramakrishna Hospital and the 25th anniversary of Ramakrishna Dental College & Hospital held at CODISSIA Hall.
Addressing both gatherings, Shri Radhakrishnan said these institutions stand as powerful examples of how quality healthcare, medical education, and compassion together contribute to nation building.
Role of Private Healthcare Institutions
The Vice President underlined the crucial role played by credible private medical institutions in complementing government initiatives. He said that along with public healthcare systems, private institutions ensure last-mile delivery of quality medical services.
He noted that private and government medical institutions together will play a decisive role in India’s journey towards Healthy India and Viksit Bharat @2047.
Healthcare Reforms Under PM Modi
Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted historic healthcare reforms undertaken in recent years. Referring to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, he said it has emerged as the world’s largest government-funded healthcare programme, providing free medical coverage to nearly 50 crore citizens.
He also pointed to the expansion of Health and Wellness Centres across the country, strengthening preventive and primary healthcare, including mental health services, elder care, and management of non-communicable diseases.
Strengthening Medical Education
Addressing the shortage of medical professionals, the Vice President said it remains a national priority. He noted that MBBS seats have increased significantly over the past decade, with plans to add 75,000 more seats by 2029.
Over 300 new medical colleges have been established nationwide in the last ten years, ensuring that quality medical education reaches beyond major metropolitan cities.
Advanced Care for Neurological Disorders
Speaking at the inauguration of the KMCH Institute of Neurosciences, Shri Radhakrishnan said neurological disorders pose a growing global public health challenge. He described the institute’s advanced neuro-navigation and robotic surgery facilities as a timely initiative that brings world-class care closer to people.
Celebrating Service and Organ Donation
At the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Sri Ramakrishna Hospital, the Vice President lauded the institution’s achievement of a Guinness World Record in 2016 for collecting over 13,206 organ donation pledges in just eight hours.
He said such initiatives reflect India’s deep-rooted civilisational values, where good health has always been regarded as the greatest wealth.
Healthcare as an Investment in the Future
Reiterating his message, Shri Radhakrishnan said healthcare expenditure should not be seen as a cost but as an investment in the nation’s future. He added that a strong healthcare system is essential for achieving the vision of a developed India.