Written by : Jayati Dubey
March 6, 2025
Source: X (Twitter)
Modi highlighted the government’s initiatives and stated that programs like Ayushman Bharat and Jan Aushadhi have collectively saved over INR 1 lakh crore for economically weaker sections and the middle class.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has projected a significant expansion in the Indian pharmaceutical sector, envisioning its valuation to grow from INR 4 lakh crore to INR 10 lakh crore with enhanced collaboration between the private sector and academia.
Speaking at a post-budget webinar on health and medical research on Wednesday, he emphasized the government’s commitment to making healthcare more affordable and accessible.
The webinar was part of a series of 12 post-budget discussions aimed at gathering insights and strategies for effectively implementing the Union Budget 2025-26 initiatives.
Highlighting the government’s initiatives, Modi stated that programs like Ayushman Bharat and Jan Aushadhi have collectively saved over INR 1 lakh crore for economically weaker sections and the middle class.
He noted that the PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission is not only leading to the establishment of new hospitals but also creating a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.
“Through Ayushman Bharat, patients have saved nearly INR 80,000 crore in medical expenses, while affordable medicines from over 9,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have resulted in savings of around INR 20,000 crore for the public,” Modi explained.
The Prime Minister also pointed out that over 1.5 lakh health and wellness centers have been established across India to ensure easy access to basic medical care.
These centers will also facilitate screening for serious diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart-related conditions, ensuring early diagnosis and treatment.
Reflecting on the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi stressed the need for self-reliance in the healthcare sector.
“During the peak of the pandemic, medicines, vaccines, and medical devices were weaponized by some countries. This reinforced the need for India to reduce dependence on foreign nations and strengthen its own capabilities,” he said.
He reaffirmed India’s commitment to the global health agenda with the ‘One Earth, One Health’ vision, advocating for a collaborative international approach to medical research, development, and supply chain resilience.
Addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals, Modi highlighted the government’s efforts in expanding medical education.
Over the past few years, more than 260 new medical colleges have been established, significantly boosting India’s medical infrastructure.
Additionally, the launch of 157 new nursing colleges alongside medical institutions is expected to strengthen the healthcare workforce, catering not only to domestic needs but also to the global demand for skilled medical professionals.
Emphasizing the role of technology in healthcare, Modi noted that drones are revolutionizing medicine delivery and diagnostic services.
This innovation, he said, presents new entrepreneurial opportunities and enhances efforts toward achieving universal healthcare access.
“Technology is a key enabler in making medical services more accessible and affordable. From telemedicine to AI-driven diagnostics, India is embracing innovation to ensure quality healthcare for all,” he said.
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