Nagpur, March 30:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday emphasized that the government's primary objective is to serve the nation's people by ensuring the availability of qualified doctors.
Praising the government's initiative to provide medical education in regional languages, PM Modi called it a groundbreaking decision, marking the first time since independence that such a move has been made.
While laying the foundation stone for the Madhav Netralaya Premium Centre in Nagpur, the Prime Minister said, "We have not only doubled the number of medical colleges but also tripled the operational AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) across the country. Furthermore, the number of medical seats has also been doubled. Our focus is on serving the community by making sure that qualified doctors are accessible to everyone."
He added, "We took a bold step by introducing medical education in the mother tongue of students, ensuring that even children from underprivileged backgrounds can pursue a career in medicine. This marks a historic moment in the post-independence era. The country is advancing by integrating modern medical knowledge with traditional wisdom. Our practices in Yoga and Ayurveda are carving a new identity globally."
Highlighting government initiatives like Ayushmann Bharat, Jan Ausadhi Kendras, and Ayushmann Arogya Mandir, PM Modi noted that these programs are providing free medical treatments and affordable medicines to the poor and middle-class families.
"Thanks to Ayushmann Bharat, crores of people are benefiting from free medical treatment. Thousands of Jan Ausadhi Kendras are making medicines more affordable for underprivileged families. There are over 1,000 dialysis centers offering free services, leading to massive savings for people. In the last decade, Lakhs of Ayushmann Arogya Mandirs have been opened in villages, providing primary healthcare and consultation, which means people no longer need to travel long distances for medical assistance," he said.
As he inaugurated the Madhav Netralaya, the Prime Minister praised the institution for its long-standing service to millions of people. He emphasized that the government's policy is focused on improving health facilities for all, including the economically disadvantaged.
"Today, we are witnessing the growth of a noble mission here at this sacred place of Sangh Seva in Nagpur. Madhav Netralaya has been a beacon of spirituality, knowledge, pride, and reverence, following the vision of Guruji (MS Golwalkar). The government's policy is to ensure better healthcare facilities for everyone, especially the poor. With this new facility, these dedicated workers will be able to serve more people efficiently," PM Modi stated.
The Prime Minister also extended his wishes to the people on the occasion of Gudi Padwa and Hindu Nav Varsh.
"I am honored to be here today, participating in this sacred event of Rashtra Yagya. The day holds special significance as it marks the beginning of Navratri. Festivals like Gudi Padwa, Ugadi, and Navreh are being celebrated across the country. Today also marks the birth anniversaries of Bhagwan Jhulelal Ji and Guru Angad Dev Ji. Furthermore, we celebrate the birth anniversary of our revered Dr. Saheb. This year marks the completion of 100 years of the RSS, and on this occasion, I had the privilege of visiting Smriti Mandir to pay tribute to Dr. Saheb and Guruji," PM Modi concluded.
(With agency inputs)
