Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said India is steadily shaping a holistic health ecosystem with a strong focus on preventive care, wellness and universal access to healthcare.
Addressing doctors at the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected office-bearers of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Ahmedabad, he underlined the growing role of the medical community in nation-building. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also attended the programme.
Marking the IMA’s centenary year, Shah said the vision of Viksit Bharat depends on a healthy population and proactive medical leadership.
“The focus of healthcare must gradually shift from illness to wellness,” he further said.
Highlighting reforms in the health sector, the Home Minister said several initiatives have been launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said these measures have strengthened India’s people-oriented healthcare system.
Listing major programmes, he cited the Swachhata Mission, Fit India Movement, Khelo India, International Yoga Day, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, ABHA, Mission Indradhanush, telemedicine, video counselling and the promotion of generic medicines.
Noting infrastructure development, Shah said ₹1.65 lakh crore has been allocated to strengthen healthcare facilities across the country. He said the investment has helped improve both the reach and quality of healthcare services.
Pointing to increased investment, HM Shah said the health budget has risen from ₹37,000 crore in 2013–14 to ₹1.28 lakh crore today.
Emphasising outcomes, he said the rise has resulted in visible improvements in healthcare delivery nationwide.
Commending the medical fraternity, he praised doctors for their selfless service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expressing confidence in their continued role, he urged them to promote awareness about Ayushman Bharat and encourage the use of affordable generic medicines.
Stressing the importance of adapting to change, the Home Minister said medical ethics must evolve alongside advances in healthcare.
Urging leadership, he further called on the IMA to help redefine ethical standards. He also asked medical colleges to instil strong values among future doctors.
Calling for cooperation, Shah encouraged doctors to actively support the expansion of telemedicine and video counselling. He said these services are particularly important for reaching remote and underserved communities.
Congratulating Dr Anil J Nayak on assuming office as the new National President of the IMA, Shah described him as dynamic. He further expressed hope that the association would gain renewed momentum under his leadership.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said India’s healthcare system has strengthened significantly over the past decade. He attributed this progress to modern infrastructure, advanced facilities and the adoption of new technologies.
Highlighting growth, he noted the rapid increase in AIIMS institutions, medical colleges and super-speciality hospitals.
Congratulating the IMA on completing 100 years, Chief Patron and former President Ketan Desai addressed the gathering. He spoke about the rapid transformation taking place in the healthcare sector.
Thanking the medical fraternity, Dr Nayak outlined the association’s expectations from the government in his inaugural address.
The event unveiled the book ‘100 Steps for a Healthy Life’ as part of new initiatives. It also presented a world record certificate.
Attending the ceremony were senior office-bearers and over 5,000 doctors participating in a three-day national conference organised by the IMA.
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