Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Emphasises ‘Healthy India as Foundation of Viksit Bharat’
Coimbatore: The Vice President of India, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, participated in two major healthcare events in Coimbatore, underscoring India’s ongoing transformation in the health sector under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Inauguration of KMCH Institutes
Shri Radhakrishnan inaugurated the KMCH Institute of Neurosciences and OPD Block, along with the KMCH Medical College Postgraduate Institute at Kovai Medical Center and Hospital (KMCH). The institute features advanced neuro-navigation and robotic surgery facilities, aimed at addressing the growing burden of neurological disorders in India.
Golden Jubilee Celebrations
He also presided as the Chief Guest at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Sri Ramakrishna Hospital and the 25th anniversary of Ramakrishna Dental College & Hospital, held at CODISSIA Hall, Coimbatore. During the event, he lauded the hospital’s 2016 Guinness World Record for collecting over 13,206 organ donation pledges in just eight hours.
Healthcare as a Nation-Building Mission
Addressing both gatherings, the Vice President emphasised that healthcare is not merely a service sector but a “Nation Building Mission.” He noted that quality healthcare, medical education, and compassion together strengthen the nation and play a crucial role in India’s journey towards a Healthy India and Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Role of Private and Government Institutions
Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted the importance of credible private healthcare institutions in complementing government initiatives to ensure last-mile delivery. He stressed that collaboration between private and government institutions is essential for nationwide healthcare improvements.
Ayushman Bharat and Health Infrastructure
Referring to the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the Vice President described it as the world’s largest government-funded healthcare programme, providing free medical coverage to nearly 50 crore citizens and easing the financial burden on low-income families. He also highlighted the establishment of Health and Wellness Centres across India, strengthening preventive and primary care, including mental health, elder care, and management of non-communicable diseases.
Medical Education Expansion
Shri Radhakrishnan underlined the national priority of addressing the shortage of medical professionals. He noted a significant increase in MBBS seats over the past decade, with plans to add 75,000 more seats by 2029, and highlighted the establishment of over 300 new medical colleges, expanding access to medical education beyond metropolitan areas.
Healthcare as an Investment
Emphasising India’s civilisational wisdom, he stated that good health has always been regarded as the greatest wealth. He reiterated that healthcare expenditure should be seen as an investment rather than a cost, adding that “Healthy India is the foundation of Viksit Bharat.” The Vice President also interacted with attendees at both events and extended Pongal greetings to all.
