PM Modi Says Healthcare in India Is Transitioning from a Privilege to a Fundamental Right

Summary:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said healthcare in India is steadily becoming a fundamental right, highlighting the government’s investments in affordable medical care, healthcare infrastructure, and digital health services. Speaking at the launch of ₹4,700 crore worth of development projects in Chandigarh, he announced the expansion of PGIMER, a new MBBS college, and highlighted achievements such as new AIIMS, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, eSanjeevani telemedicine, and TB control initiatives. He said these efforts have improved access to quality healthcare, particularly for lower- and middle-income families, while strengthening India’s position as a global healthcare destination. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that healthcare in India is gradually evolving from being a privilege into a fundamental right, highlighting the government’s continued efforts to make quality medical services more affordable, strengthen healthcare infrastructure, and improve access to treatment nationwide.

Addressing the foundation stone laying ceremony and inauguration of development projects worth more than ₹4,700 crore in Chandigarh across the healthcare, education, and road sectors, the Prime Minister said India’s healthcare system has witnessed significant transformation over the past twelve years.

According to PM Modi, the country’s healthcare reforms have delivered the greatest benefits to lower- and middle-income families.

“Healthcare in India is no longer a privilege; it is steadily becoming a basic right,” the Prime Minister said.

PGIMER Expansion to Improve Medical Services

During the event, PM Modi announced the expansion of healthcare facilities at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. The projects include a new Neuroscience Centre, a Mother and Child Centre, and a Critical Care Hospital Block, all aimed at enhancing treatment facilities for millions of patients.

He also announced the approval of a new MBBS college at PGIMER, stating that increasing the number of medical colleges and postgraduate seats will help address the shortage of doctors while creating additional opportunities for aspiring medical professionals.

Significant Growth in Healthcare Infrastructure

Highlighting the government’s investments over the past decade, the Prime Minister said that since 2014, 15 new AIIMS have been approved, hundreds of medical colleges have been established, and specialised hospitals treating critical illnesses such as cancer have been strengthened across the country.

He added that expanding primary healthcare continues to be a major focus under the Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission.

Under the mission, India has developed critical care blocks, integrated public health laboratories, and public health units across multiple regions. The Prime Minister noted that more than 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are now operational in rural, urban, and tribal areas, delivering comprehensive primary healthcare through twelve service packages.

He further said these centres have screened crores of people for hypertension, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases.

Progress in Digital Healthcare and Maternal Health

PM Modi also highlighted the rapid growth of digital healthcare services, stating that the eSanjeevani telemedicine platform has enabled more than 48 crore consultations, allowing patients in remote locations to receive specialist medical advice without travelling long distances.

He said these healthcare initiatives have contributed to improved maternal and child health outcomes, with over 90% of childbirths now taking place in healthcare institutions. According to the Prime Minister, maternal mortality has declined by 86%, while infant mortality has also reduced considerably.

He further emphasised the government’s focus on preventive healthcare through programmes such as Poshan Abhiyan, Mission Indradhanush, yoga promotion, HPV vaccination, and the U-WIN digital platform.

Renewed Push to Eliminate Tuberculosis

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to eradicating tuberculosis, PM Modi said the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan has strengthened awareness, screening, and treatment efforts across the country.

He stated that TB treatment coverage has now exceeded 90% and, citing a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report, noted that India has achieved a 21% reduction in tuberculosis cases over the past decade.

India Strengthening Its Position in Global Healthcare

Reflecting on India’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prime Minister said the country has transformed from being viewed as dependent on international support to becoming a recognised destination for advanced medical treatment.

He attributed this progress to sustained investments in healthcare infrastructure and policies focused on making quality medical care both affordable and widely accessible.

Concluding his address, PM Modi said India should continue investing in modern healthcare infrastructure and emerging technologies as it works towards achieving its vision of becoming a developed nation.