MUMBAI: In a significant move towards bolstering public health, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the nationwide ‘Save Lives and Build a Healthy India’ campaign at Lok Bhawan here on Tuesday, organized by PD Hinduja Hospital. Addressing the gathering, she emphasized that health is a collective responsibility, urging all stakeholders to ensure timely and quality medical care reaches even the most underprivileged.
Praising the government’s decade-long strides in healthcare, President Murmu highlighted Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme covering nearly 12 crore families with up to Rs 5 lakh annual hospitalization benefits. Over 1.8 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are now delivering essential services across the nation.
Initiatives like Mission Indradhanush for vaccinations, TB-Free India drive, and the Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission are proving instrumental in disease prevention. The expansion of MBBS and postgraduate seats, coupled with new AIIMS and medical colleges, has significantly boosted the availability of doctors and paramedical staff.
Stressing the criticality of emergency medical services, the President noted that prompt interventions can save countless lives. Under the Prime Minister’s Relief Scheme, accident victims receive up to Rs 1.5 lakh in cashless treatment. Ambulances, trauma centers, and awareness campaigns further strengthen this lifeline. This new campaign marks a vital step in that direction.
Healthy citizens form the bedrock of a strong nation, she asserted, positioning healthcare as integral to nation-building. Providing affordable, world-class services should be our shared mission. She discussed technology’s role, particularly AI, with the IndiaAI Mission fostering innovations. As AI’s influence grows, preparedness is key.
India leads as a global pharmaceutical powerhouse, with homegrown drugs treating millions worldwide. Yet, reliance on imports for vital equipment and medicines burdens citizens financially. Make in India and PLI schemes are ramping up domestic production. President Murmu called on medical and business leaders to champion research, innovation, and startups.
Referencing the vision of a Developed India by 2047, she underlined healthy populace as foundational. Collective efforts will deliver superior healthcare, positioning India as a global health hub. PD Hinduja Hospital commits through this campaign to advancing health awareness, emergency response, and inclusive care.