Union Health Minister JP Nadda has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the prestigious legacy of the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), vowing to maintain the institution’s high standards in medical education and healthcare.
Speaking at the Bihar-Jharkhand Medical Forum Convention (BJMFCON) 2024, Nadda assured the medical community that AIIMS' reputation for excellence will remain intact despite the rapid expansion of healthcare services nationwide.
Addressing concerns over potential compromises in quality due to the rapid growth in the healthcare and medical education sectors, Nadda emphasised that AIIMS will continue to set the benchmark for medical training and healthcare delivery. He reiterated that the institution’s faculty and teaching standards would not be diluted, as the government is committed to upholding AIIMS' stature as a leading medical institution nationally and globally.
Nadda’s remarks come when India's healthcare infrastructure is undergoing significant expansion. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has seen a substantial increase in medical education opportunities. According to Nadda, the number of medical colleges has surged by 98%, growing from 387 to 766. Similarly, MBBS seats have risen by 125%, from 51,348 to 1,15,412, while postgraduate medical seats have increased by 134%, from 31,185 to 73,111.
According to a Hindustan Times, Nadda highlighted the government’s achievements in extending healthcare services to rural and underserved areas. One key initiative is the establishment of 1.73 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, aimed at promoting early disease detection and preventive healthcare. These healthcare centres are designed to address common health concerns at the community level, ensuring that more citizens have access to quality healthcare.
Nadda also underscored the government’s efforts to bridge the gap between medical education and healthcare services. By expanding medical infrastructure and increasing educational opportunities, the government aims to produce more qualified doctors and healthcare professionals capable of meeting the nation’s growing healthcare needs.
Nadda assured the medical fraternity that AIIMS will continue to lead by example, offering world-class education and services. He emphasised that the government's focus on healthcare expansion will not come at the cost of the institution's legacy. Instead, AIIMS' high standards will serve as a foundation for enhancing India's medical and healthcare systems.
The minister’s commitment to preserving AIIMS’ legacy is a crucial step in ensuring that India’s medical education and healthcare sectors continue to grow without compromising on quality.
