Healthcare at Heart of Viksit Bharat: Anupriya
She was addressing the Annual Convocation Ceremony of Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC) as the Chief Guest here. The event was also graced by Dr. VK Paul, member, NITI Aayog, and Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, along with faculty, dignitaries and graduating students.
In her keynote address, Patel stressed that India's aspiration to become a developed nation by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, depends heavily on a robust and equitable healthcare system. 'Healthcare is one of the foundational pillars of Viksit Bharat. Only a healthy nation can truly be a developed nation,' she said.
Tracing the trajectory of India's health reforms, the Minister recalled the introduction of the National Health Policy in 2017, which laid the groundwork for a comprehensive, multi-dimensional health system — curative, preventive, promotive, palliative, and rehabilitative. She highlighted significant achievements including the establishment of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, expansion of AIIMS from 7 to 23, and the adoption of digital health solutions.
She further noted that India is advancing toward the WHO-recommended doctor-population ratio, and addressing the shortage of specialists in underserved regions. Government health spending, she said, has risen to nearly 2% of GDP, moving steadily toward the 2.5% target outlined in the national policy.
The Minister cited flagship programmes such as Ayushman Bharat – PM-JAY, the world's largest health assurance scheme covering 55 crore citizens, and Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which ensure access to quality medicines at affordable prices. These interventions, she said, have led to a significant reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare.
Speaking on India's COVID-19 response, Patel stated, 'India's vaccination campaign was among the largest and fastest in the world, with over 220 crore doses administered.'
She also urged LHMC graduates to continue the nation-building journey through medical research, digital innovation, and compassionate service. 'The medical profession is a rare blend of privilege and responsibility. Let your healing hands also carry the values of ethics, empathy and service to the underprivileged,' she told the students.
The convocation also saw the launch of LHMC's Annual Report for 2024 and the Antibiotic Policy.
UNI AJ ARN
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