Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog, inaugurated the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s Health Pavilion at the 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF) held at Bharat Mandapam. The event was attended by Union Health Secretary Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, along with other senior officials from the Health Ministry. The pavilion’s theme, “One Health,” emphasizes the interdependence of human, animal, plant, and ecosystem health, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Paul highlighted the significant strides India has made in the healthcare sector over the past decade, describing it as an “inflection point” in the nation’s journey toward achieving universal health coverage and advancing disease prevention measures. He said, “The vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister towards Viksit Bharat also involves attaining the vision of Niramaya Bharat,” emphasizing that these goals are deeply interlinked.
Dr. Paul noted that India’s current pace in healthcare reform positions the country well to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while bringing key health indicators—such as life expectancy and infant mortality rate—closer to the standards of developed nations.
The vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister towards Viksit Bharat also involves attaining the vision of Niramaya Bharat.Dr. V.K. Paul
The address underscored several significant achievements, including the progress made in sickle cell anemia screening, with over 5 crore individuals screened so far. India is steadily working toward its target of 8 crore screenings, alongside advancements in programs addressing mental health, oral health, and family planning. These programs are key pillars in India’s broader approach to improving healthcare accessibility and equity.
Dr. Paul highlighted recent enhancements to Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), which now covers all senior citizens aged 70 years and above. Additionally, the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are expanding primary healthcare access across the nation, providing a wide range of preventive and curative services.
Reflecting on India’s disease elimination efforts, Dr. Paul shared that the country has successfully eliminated or is on track to eliminate seven diseases within the next five years. These include measles, rubella, trachoma, kala-azar, tuberculosis, leprosy, and lymphatic filariasis. Moreover, India is making substantial progress toward eliminating malaria, with ongoing infrastructural improvements supporting this goal.
Dr. Paul also noted the increased government focus on addressing challenges in mental health, oral healthcare, and family planning. These initiatives align with the government’s broader vision of holistic healthcare, integrating innovative technologies and local healthcare delivery systems to improve outcomes for underserved populations.
The last ten years have witnessed an ‘inflection point’ in improving the healthcare sector, be it on universal health coverage or disease prevention.Dr. V.K. Paul
In his address, Dr. Paul encouraged attendees to explore the interactive experience stalls at the pavilion, showcasing advancements in various health programs. He remarked, “The healthcare sector has received historic support in the last decade,” emphasizing how infrastructural investments and programmatic innovations are transforming India’s health landscape.
The event was attended by Smt. Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary, Health Ministry; Smt. Roli Singh, Additional Secretary, Health Ministry; and Shri Rajiv Wadhawan, Joint Secretary, Health Ministry, along with other senior officials.
Dr. Paul’s remarks also drew attention to the comprehensive vision of Niramaya Bharat, which aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s broader goal of Viksit Bharat. This vision integrates healthcare improvements with broader social and economic goals, ensuring access to affordable, high-quality care for all Indians.
In conclusion, Dr. Paul reiterated the significance of collaboration and innovation in healthcare. He emphasized that India is at a pivotal moment, poised to achieve monumental progress in disease elimination, healthcare accessibility, and universal health coverage. The event provided a platform to celebrate the progress made and to reaffirm the commitment to building a healthier, more equitable India.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)