Written by : Dr. Aishwarya Sarthe
March 10, 2025
During his visit, he engaged with AIIMS officials, doctors, and patients while reaffirming the central government’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility.
Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda has inaugurated several new healthcare facilities at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bilaspur.
The minister laid the foundation stone for a Virology Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL), a INR 10 Cr project that aims to detect infectious diseases and viral outbreaks.
“This laboratory will contribute significantly to virus research, vaccine development, and epidemic management,” Nadda remarked.
Further, he inaugurated the Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) Pharmacy, which aims to provide life-saving medicines at a discount of over 50%.
“This is the 225th AMRIT Pharmacy in the country, and it will significantly reduce the cost of treatment for patients by making essential medicines more affordable,” he stated.
In a move to strengthen diagnostic capabilities, Nadda also unveiled Positron Emission Tomography, Computed Tomography (PET CT) and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT CT) scanners, worth INR 25 Cr.
These imaging tools are expected to assist inthe early detection of cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.
“While PET CT will help in identifying cancer and heart diseases in their initial stages, SPECT CT will allow detailed examinations of bones, kidneys, and heart conditions, improving treatment outcomes,” he said.
Additionally, he performed the bhoomi pujan for a INR 15 Cr rest house, intended for patients and their families requiring extended treatment at AIIMS. Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur suggested expanding the facility’s capacity from 250 to 500 beds.
To support medical infrastructure, Nadda also announced the construction of a INR 4.90 Cr indoor stadium at AIIMS Bilaspur. He highlighted that under the Bhishma Cube Arogya Maitri Scheme, the institute will receive assistance in extending advanced medical services to remote areas.
“Healthcare infrastructure expansion is a priority, and these developments will directly benefit patients by improving diagnosis, treatment, and overall care at AIIMS Bilaspur,” he concluded.
During his visit, he engaged with AIIMS officials, doctors, and patients while reaffirming the central government’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility.