Latest news with #BharatHealthInitiativeforSahyog
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu calls India 'most trusted ally', hails first responder role
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday called India his country's closest and most trusted ally, a sharp turn after the earlier 'India Out' campaign. Prime Minister Narendra Modi presents Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) Health Cubes to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, in Malé on Friday.(DPR PMO) Muizzu met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Presidential office in Male during the Indian leader's two-day state visit to the Maldives. Muizzu expressed his appreciation for India's commitment to being the first responder in any crisis that Male faces. "India has long stood as the Maldives's closest and most trusted partner. Our collaboration spans a wide range of areas, from security and trade to healthcare, education and beyond, touching the everyday lives of our citizens," Muizzu said. Apart from appreciating India for its response to the Maldives' crisis, President Muizzu also discussed various areas of cooperation with PM Modi, including development partnership, infrastructure support, capacity building, climate action, and health. PM Modi reiterated India's commitment to support Maldives and its people, as per its requirements and priorities, and for the peace, progress and prosperity of the Indian Ocean region. Both leaders took stock of the progress in implementing the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership'. Modi reiterated India's commitment to further deepen bilateral ties in keeping with its 'Neighbourhood First' and Vision MAHASAGAR policies. Both countries called for further strengthening defence and maritime security cooperation and highlighted their collaboration under the Colombo Security Conclave. The two leaders also reviewed the economic partnership between the two countries. The Prime Minister underscored that the proposed Free Trade Agreement and the Bilateral Investment Treaty would open new opportunities for both sides. Noting that the two countries must take advantage of the digital economy, especially to promote tourism, he welcomed the recent understandings on UPI adoption, the acceptance of the RUPAY card, and trade in local currencies. The two leaders highlighted that the close development partnership between the countries was adding new value to the already strong people-to-people ties. The two leaders noted that, as Global South partners, they would continue to work on issues such as climate change, renewable energy promotion, disaster risk reduction, and weather science in the interests of the planet and its people. PM Modi thanked President Muizzu for his strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and the solidarity extended to India in the fight against terrorism. What agreements did India and Maldives sign during PM Narendra Modi's visit to Maldives? India and the Maldives signed six MOUs during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the country in the fields of fisheries and aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian pharmacopoeia, and concessional Line of Credit. The new Line of Credit offers ₹4850 crores (approx $550 million) in support of infrastructure development and other activities in the Maldives. An Amendatory Agreement for the existing LoCs was also exchanged, reducing Maldives's annual debt repayment obligations by 40% (from $51 million to $29 million). Both sides also exchanged the Terms of Reference of the proposed Free Trade Agreement. The two leaders also virtually inaugurated a roads and drainage system project in Addu city and six High Impact Community Development Projects in other cities. PM Modi handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles for the Maldives National Defence Force and Immigration authorities. He also handed over two units of Aarogya Maitri Health Cube (BHISHM) sets to the Government of Maldives. With state-of-the-art medical equipment as part of the cube, it can provide medical aid to 200 casualties with in-built support to sustain a crew of six medical personnel for up to 72 hours.
India.com
4 days ago
- Business
- India.com
India will continuously cooperate in development of defence capabilities of Maldives: PM Modi in Male
Prime Minister Narendra Modi presents Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) Health Cubes to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, in Malé on Friday. (ANI Photo) Modi in Maldives: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India will continuously cooperate in developing defence capabilities of Maldives and peace, stability and prosperity in Indian Ocean is a common goal of the two countries. In his remarks at the Press Statement with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, PM Modi talked of expanding economic cooperation and strong development partnership between the two countries. 'In the sector of defence and security, mutual cooperation is the symbol of mutual trust. The building of Defence Ministry, which is being inaugurated today, is a trusted, concrete building. It is a symbol of our strong partnership. Our partnership will also be in weather science. Whatever the weather may be, our friendship will always remain bright and clear. In the development of defence capabilities of Maldives, India will cooperate continuously. Peace, stability and prosperity in Indian Ocean is our shared goal,' PM Modi said. 'Together in Colombo Security Conclave, we will strengthen regional maritime security. Climate change is a challenge for both of us. We have decide to promote renewable energy. In this sector, India will share its experience with Maldives,' he added. PM Modi said that last year in October, during the President Muizzu's visit to India, the two countries shared a vision on extensive economic and maritime partnership. 'Now, this is becoming a reality. It is a result of that, that our relations are touching new heights. Inauguration of several projects have become possible. 4000 social housing units, built with India's cooperation, will become a new beginning for several families in Maldives. These will be their new houses. Greater Male Connectivity Project, Addu Road Development Project and redevelopment of Hanimaadhoo International Airport – this entire area will emerge as an important transit and economic centre. Soon, with the beginning of ferry system, commuting between different islands will be smoother. After that, the distance between islands will be measured in terms of just ferry time, and not GPS,' he said. The Prime Minister said that India is Maldives' closest neighbour and the country holds an important place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'MAHASAGAR' vision. 'India is proud of being the most trusted friend of Maldives. Be it a crisis or pandemic, India has always stood as first responders. Be it making essential commodities available or handling the economy after COVID, India has always worked together,' he said. PM Modi noted that this year, India and Maldives are also celebrating 60 years of their diplomatic relations. 'First of all, on behalf of the people of India, I would like to extend heartiest greetings to the President and people of Maldives on the historic occasion of the 60th year of independence. For inviting me as the Guest of Honour on this historic occasion, I express heartfelt gratitude to the President,' he said. 'But the roots of our relations are older than history and as deep as the sea. The commemorative stamps released today display traditional boats of both nations. This reflects that we are not just neighbours but also co-passengers,' he said. PM arrived in Maldives on Friday in the second leg of his two-nation tour. He reached Maldives after successful visit to United Kingdom.
News18
4 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Boat Stamps, Sapling & BHISHM Cubes Take Centre Stage At PM Modi–President Muizzu Meet In Maldives
Last Updated: PM Modi and Maldivian President discussed trade, defence, and infrastructure. They released a stamp for 60 years of ties, planted saplings, and opened a Defence Ministry building. PM Modi in Maldives: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, focusing on consolidating cooperation in areas of trade, defence and infrastructure, marking a major turnaround in the ties after a spell of unease. While addressing a joint press conference with Muizzu in Male, PM Modi declared that ties between India and Maldives will 'always remain bright and clear". After concluding the delegation-level talks, both the leaders released a stamp to mark 60 years of diplomatic ties between two nations. PM Modi noted that the ties between two nations are getting stronger with the passage of time. 'Commemorating a very cherished friendship! President Muizzu and I released a stamp to mark 60 years of India-Maldives friendship. Our ties are getting stronger with the passage of time and are benefitting the people of our nations," he said in a post on X. Commemorating a very cherished friendship!President Muizzu and I released a stamp to mark 60 years of India-Maldives friendship. Our ties are getting stronger with the passage of time and are benefitting the people of our nations. @MMuizzu — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 25, 2025 Further emphasising on the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, PM Modi and President Muizzu planted saplings, promoting Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' (a tree for Mother) initiative and pledge of 5 million Tree Plantation of the Maldives Government. 'India and the Maldives fully understand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. And, we are committed to doing everything possible to boost sustainability. This evening in Malé, President Muizzu and I planted saplings, strengthening 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' (a tree for Mother) initiative and Pledge of 5 million Tree Plantation of the Maldives Government," PM Modi said on X. India and the Maldives fully understand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. And, we are committed to doing everything possible to boost evening in Malé, President Muizzu and I planted saplings, strengthening 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam'… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 25, 2025 They also inaugurated new building of the Ministry of Defence in Malé. Additionally, reaffirming New Delhi's partnership in service of the people, PM Modi presented Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) cubes to President Muizzu as a symbol of India's commitment to timely and compassionate healthcare support. 'Presented BHISHM cubes to President Muizzu, reaffirming our partnership in service of the people. Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) is a symbol of India's commitment to timely and compassionate healthcare support. These deployable medical cubes carry essential medicines and equipment for emergency care," he said. Presented BHISHM cubes to President Muizzu, reaffirming our partnership in service of the people. Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) is a symbol of India's commitment to timely and compassionate healthcare support. These deployable medical cubes carry… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 25, 2025 Diplomatic Talks PM Modi and President Muizzu reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties. During their meeting, the leaders focused on enhancing cooperation across key sectors including trade, defence, infrastructure, and climate action. A key outcome of the meeting was the announcement of the launch of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the Maldives. Both sides also agreed to speed up work on a Bilateral Investment Treaty to encourage cross-border investments. In a move to boost trade efficiency, PM Modi announced plans for a local currency settlement system that would allow direct trade using the Indian Rupee (INR) and the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). 'With the local currency settlement system, we will be able to have direct trade between the Rupee and the Rufiyaa," PM Modi said. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : Male, Maldives First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Mint
11-07-2025
- Health
- Mint
India to ramp up training of medical staff in frontline healthcare for mass casualty management
New Delhi: In an effort to strengthen the country's medical emergency preparedness, the Union government is working on a plan to create a specialized cadre of doctors and medical staff equipped to effectively manage incidents involving mass casualties. These frontline healthcare workers will be stationed at hospital emergency units, and the development assumes significance given the increasing frequency of natural and man-made disasters, according to officials aware of the matter. This army of doctors will be crucial in providing an immediate and coordinated medical response during large-scale emergencies. The initiative is called the Mass Casualty Management Programme, and more than 1,000 healthcare workers will be trained in crisis management. This is crucial given the increasing frequency of various disasters. 'This nationwide capacity-building effort will involve training of more than 1,000 healthcare professionals through 50 training sessions. The proposal for this training was approved at a high-level meeting of the Mission Steering Meeting National Health Mission (NHM) held recently,' said one of the officials aware of the matter. The total estimated cost for this programme is ₹ 6.55 crore, another official familiar with the matter said. 'Each training programme will host 20 participants, consisting of five individuals from each of the four participating hospitals. Trainees will include doctors (emergency physicians and other medical practitioners) and nurses from hospital emergency departments, as well as designated disaster response coordinators. The training of trainers (ToT) sessions will run for five days, while subsequent training courses will be three days long,' stated the document reviewed by Mint. Queries sent to the health ministry spokesperson on Tuesday remained unanswered. Another key objective of this programme is to ensure that the newly introduced Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri (BHISHM) Cubes are used effectively. These rapidly deployable, modular mobile disaster management hospitals are designed to treat up to 200 people at a disaster site. According to the National Medical Commission (NMC), India has 13.86 lakh doctors registered with State Medical Councils and the NMC. Furthermore, the country has 36.14 lakh registered nursing personnel. Earlier,Mintreported that the Union government plans to acquire 50 of these BHISHM Cubes for 22 strategic locations, including places like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). While India's rapidly deployable BHISHM cubes are valuable for disaster management in underserved areas, their effectiveness depends on equally vital elements: skilled personnel and strong teamwork, Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, a public health expert and former president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA, Cochin) said. 'Short, intensive training for doctors and nurses, especially those with experience in casualty departments, can make a real difference on the ground. Emphasis must be paid to the quality and standardisation of the training modules. Drills will ensure the expertise of personnel translates into outcomes, especially while working as a newly deployed team in a limited infrastructure setting. As such events are unpredictable and may not happen for a long time, periodic re-certification will be helpful,' Jayadevan added.
Mint
09-07-2025
- Health
- Mint
Tested in Pak conflict, health ministry to buy 50 cube hospitals
New Delhi: The health ministry plans to buy 50 portable hospitals from state-run HLL Lifecare Ltd, according to a senior government official and documents reviewed by Mint, after deploying two of them during the recent conflict with Pakistan. These so-called advanced trauma care units, known as Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri (BHISHM) cubes, are part of the Centre's plan to significantly enhance India's disaster response capabilities. At BHISHM cube's core are several compact, portable "mini cubes" filled with essential medicines and equipment, designed for rapid deployment in various emergencies. Each of these indigenously developed mobile hospitals can treat up to 200 people per day, and will be strategically deployed at 22 Central government institutes and hospitals, including at all All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Each Cube consists of medicines and equipment for the first line of care for all kinds of injuries and medical situations. It also includes surgical equipment for a basic Operation Room. The effectiveness of these mobile hospitals was recently demonstrated during the India-Pakistan conflict, when two BHISHM cubes were successfully used in Kashmir to treat the injured. These lightweight flat-packed mobile units, which look like tents, can be quickly flown to an affected area and assembled in less than an hour. 'There's a plan to procure at least 50 BHISHM cubes which are to be stationed in all the AIIMS for use in case of disaster or calamity," said an official aware of the matter requesting anonymity. The matter was discussed during the 9th Mission Steering Group (MSG) meeting of the National Health Mission (NHM), held recently and chaired by health minister J.P. Nadda, reflecting a strategic shift towards more agile and efficient healthcare delivery during disasters and public health emergencies. According to the documents reviewed by Mint, BHISHM cubes are set to replace the previously approved Container-Based Mobile Hospitals (CGMH) under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). CBMHs, large in size and not easy to move around quickly, were approved in 2021 at a total estimated cost of ₹212.92 crore. On the other hand, BHISHM Cubes are small, modular and easy-to-move mobile hospitals that can be set up quickly. They use rapid frequency identification or RFID, which helps identify and track things using radio waves. 'This change means that India will have a better and faster way to provide emergency medical help wherever it's needed," the official added. BHISHM Cubes, indigenously developed under the aegis of the National Security Council Secretariat as part of the Aarogya Maitri initiative, are designed to treat up to 200 casualties per day directly at the site of an incident. 'The new proposal will utilize approximately ₹133.1 crore from the approved capital budget of PM-ABHIM for the procurement of the 50 BHISHM Cubes," the documents stated. The official said that during the meeting, Nadda emphasized the need for a strong system in place to check the quality of the Cubes, especially as so many of them are being ordered. The minister has directed HLL Lifecare Ltd to make sure they meet all the required quality standards. A high-level committee was suggested to ensure quality standards for the mobile hospitals. 'This initiative is set to greatly improve India's ability to deliver immediate, life-saving emergency care. This is especially important for making the most of available resources and ensuring these units can be quickly sent to different locations. The BHISHM Cubes are planned for deployment at 22 specific central government hospitals and institutions," the official said. Dr Alexander Thomas, founder and patron, Association of Healthcare Providers India (AHPI) and other such organizations, said rapid deployment systems like these are crucial for disaster preparedness and emergency response. 'However, infrastructure alone is not enough. Having an emergency care setup is a good idea, but it must be matched with well-trained personnel—intensivists, nurses, and paramedics—who can effectively manage mass casualty situations. Even in our premier institutions like AIIMS, many posts remain vacant. The success of this initiative will depend not just on technology, but on ensuring adequate manpower, training, and maintenance," Dr Thomas said. Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, public health expert and former president at Indian Medical Association (IMA) Cochin chapter, said the shift towards rapidly deployable cube-based mobile hospitals is in line with global trends. 'The earlier container-based systems were expensive and cumbersome. Whether it is a natural disaster, epidemic or war, human health requires immediate attention. Such events often occur in inaccessible areas without state of the art healthcare facilities, and hence the need for these mobile hospitals. They need to be staffed by trained personnel, and designating a reserve pool of trained doctors, nurses, technicians, pharmacists and logistics experts in advance will ensure they are immediately available on site at the newly assembled facilities. They may be linked to a parent tertiary hospital," Dr Jayadevan said. Queries sent to the health ministry spokesperson on Tuesday remained unanswered at press time.
