Modi Govt’s new initiatives to make quality healthcare affordable, accessible: Dr Jitendra
STATE TIMES NEWS
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the upgraded Super Specialty Neurosurgery and Cardiovascular Surgery Block at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology (SCTIMST) under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).
The new facility is a step toward enhancing India’s healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that quality medical care is accessible and affordable for all sections of society.
Dr. Singh highlighted SCTIMST as a model of synergy between science, technology, and medical advancements, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for an integrated, holistic healthcare approach.
He praised the institute for emerging as a center of excellence in both healthcare and the research and development of cost-effective medical devices and procedures.
Under the Department of Science and Technology, SCTIMST embodies a “whole-of-government” approach, fostering collaboration between the Ministries of Health and Science and Technology. The Minister emphasized the broader scope of PMSSY, which not only strengthens healthcare infrastructure but also promotes indigenous innovation in health-related research. The new PMSSY Building will enhance SCTIMST’s capacity, offering state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, specialized medical research labs, and infrastructure for improved patient care. It will also serve as a hub for high-end medical training and knowledge-sharing among professionals. Dr. Singh linked the initiative to other government healthcare programs such as Ayushman Bharat and universal health cover for citizens above 70. He stressed the importance of integrating modern medical advancements, including AI in diagnostics and genome-based therapies, with traditional healthcare approaches. The Minister also noted India’s progress in biotechnology, with achievements like the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer. He emphasized the need for continued investment in healthcare R&D to maintain India’s leadership in global medical innovation. Dr. Singh urged SCTIMST to specialize in neurosurgery and cardiovascular research, positioning itself as a global leader. The event also saw participation from key figures in the medical and scientific communities, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a self-reliant, globally competitive healthcare system.
