Union Health Minister JP Nadda, addressing the Lok Sabha on Monday, highlighted the significant improvements in India’s health infrastructure under the NDA government. During the discussion on the demands for grants under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for 2024-25, he emphasized several key advancements.
Increase in Medical Colleges and Seats
Nadda noted a substantial rise in the number of medical colleges, from 387 in 2014 to 731 in 2024. This expansion represents an impressive growth in medical education infrastructure. Additionally, undergraduate medical seats have surged from 51,348 to 112,000, marking a 118 percent increase. Postgraduate seats have also seen a 133 percent rise.
Health Budget Allocation
The health budget has seen a significant boost, increasing by 164 percent. In 2013-14, the budget was Rs 33,278 crore, which has now risen to Rs 90,958 crore. This increase in funding underscores the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services and infrastructure.
AIIMS Expansion
Under the NDA government, the number of All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has increased dramatically. Before the first NDA government, there was only one AIIMS. The Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government established six more, and in the last 10 years of the Modi government, 22 additional AIIMS have been approved. Currently, 18 AIIMS are operational, and four are under construction.
Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Nadda highlighted the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, which has provided free treatment facilities up to Rs 5 lakh to about 12 crore families, covering more than 55 crore people. Furthermore, 1.73 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established to enhance healthcare access. The scheme has also contributed to reducing out-of-pocket expenditure from 62 percent to 47.1 percent, alleviating financial burdens on families seeking medical care.
Conclusion
The NDA government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has made significant strides in strengthening India’s health infrastructure. The increase in medical colleges, expansion of AIIMS, substantial rise in health budget allocation, and the successful implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme are testament to the government’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of the Indian population.
