Ahmedabad Others
Gujarat sets healthcare benchmark with technology-driven transformation
IIPHG event showcases healthcare growth, India’s health diplomacy
Gandhinagar: India’s key role in global healthcare took centre stage at the Health Diplomacy Program hosted by the Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar (IIPHG) on January 17-18, 2025. The event, organised with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), highlighted India’s pandemic response through vaccine manufacturing, international aid and advancements in health tourism, education and research.
Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel reflected on the state’s healthcare journey since 2001, when healthcare infrastructure was minimal. “Today, Gujarat boasts medical colleges and hospitals in every district, supported by 1,000 primary healthcare centres and 365 community health centres in rural areas,” he said.
Tradition meets modern
Patel spoke of the state’s initiatives against non-communicable diseases whilst promoting Ayurveda and yoga. He unveiled plans for four Medicity hubs across Gujarat, describing them as “Amrut Kund” or fountains of health innovation. The minister acknowledged IIPHG’s role in promoting value-based healthcare. “Prevention is better than cure,” Patel noted, adding that Gujarat is embracing automation and artificial intelligence to maintain its competitive edge.
Tourism triumph
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel revealed Gujarat’s impressive growth in medical tourism, with its share rising from 13% to 33% nationally. The UN Mehta Cardiac Care Center has become a magnet for patients from Asia and Africa, cementing Gujarat’s position as a healthcare destination. The state’s progress is evident in improved maternal health indicators and institutional deliveries, which increased from 54% to 94%.
Intl partnerships
The event’s panel discussions emphasised India’s crucial role in global health during the pandemic. Experts discussed South-South cooperation, streamlined visa processes and initiatives like the “Study in India” portal, which has enhanced international student access to Indian institutions.
Step by step
Notable participants included IIPHG Director Dr Deepak Saxena, PP&R Director Kajari Biswas, IFS, Dhananjay Dwivedi, IAS and Prof (Dr) Sanjay Zodpey, who discussed India’s holistic approach to healthcare. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel concluded by affirming Gujarat’s commitment to progress “Kadam se Kadam Milakar” (step by step) “with national and global health advancements. With its innovative policies, robust infrastructure and focus on preventive care, Gujarat is setting an example for the world.”
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