Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, reflected on the past, present, and future of Indian healthcare at The Economic Times Doctor’s Day Conclave 2023
In his Chief Guest Address – Sarve Santu Niramayah: India- The Global Wellness Centre – Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya took to the stage to praise doctors across India for their selfless service. Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, spoke at the 6th Edition of The Economic Times Doctor’s Day Conclave 2023, organised by ET Edge. The title of his Guest Address, “Sarve Santu Niramayah”, which translates to “May all be free from illness”, reflects the motto of Indian doctors and celebrates their brave achievements.
The Honourable Minister started by explaining what Doctor’s Day truly means by stating that Doctor’s Day is an apt occasion for honouring the 14 lakh registered doctors around India and recognising their untiring services. According to him, the event also serves the purpose of encouraging doctors. Dr. Mandaviya eloquently stated that healthcare is a service, and not a commerce, thus highlighting the noble cause of the profession. He further remarked that Indian society has tremendous faith in doctors.
In his praise of the doctors for the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Minister said, “During the Covid-19 pandemic, the developed countries faced a shortage of medical staff. But in India, our doctors and medical staff selflessly served patients while putting their own lives at risk. We salute their untiring dedication.” It was precisely because of the medical professionals and staff that India was able to manage the pandemic effectively, he continued.
During his meeting with Bill Gates at the World Economic Forum (WEF), the latter praised India’s handling of the pandemic. Continuing his speech, the Minister emphasised the need for making healthcare accessible and affordable for every Indian and praised the government for taking steps in the right direction.
He stressed the pivotal role that medical colleges assume in preparing future medical professionals and training them to uphold medical ethics. Expanding on the topic, the Minister revealed that presently there are 1 lakh 68 thousand medical centres across the country i.e., approximately 1 wellness centre per 5,000-6,000 population. “Around 22 AIIMS are in the process of being set up, while 16 of them are already commissioned,” stated Dr. Mandaviya.
Before ending his Guest Address, the Minister concluded, “Our country is changing and progressing. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each doctor in the country and wish them all the best for the future.”
(This article is written and edited by Aditya Krishnan)
