TFP Bureau, Raipur; February 22, 2024: The Chhattisgarh Assembly has given unanimous approval to demands for grants totaling Rs 6,206.51 crore, earmarked for the Public Health and Family Welfare, Medical Education, and Twenty Point Program Implementation departments. Led by Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, the discussions on these grants witnessed the revelation of an array of transformative initiatives poised to revolutionize the state’s healthcare landscape. Notably, the allocations encompass Rs 4,413.16 crore for Public Health and Family Welfare, Rs 1,788.86 crore for Medical Education, and Rs 4.49 crore for Twenty Point Program Implementation.
In a landmark announcement, Health Minister Shri Jaiswal unveiled plans to introduce cutting-edge medical technologies and drone services to bolster the state’s healthcare infrastructure. Furthermore, he outlined the establishment of trauma centers along critical transportation arteries, such as the Raipur-Bilaspur National Highway, underscoring the government’s commitment to prompt emergency medical care.
Expansion of Healthcare Facilities:
Addressing the Assembly, Health Minister Shri. Jaiswal outlined an ambitious blueprint for healthcare expansion across the state. Emphasizing accessibility and quality, he revealed plans to establish super-specialty hospitals, akin to AIIMS, in every divisional headquarters. Additionally, six district hospitals in remote regions are slated for development as model district hospitals, with an allocated budget of Rs 20 crore for each. These initiatives align with the government’s pledge to provide free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh under the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Ayushman Swasthya Yojana.
To bolster healthcare delivery in rural areas, the government has earmarked 393 new positions for lab technicians in primary health centers and allocated funds for 57 new mobile medical units to serve remote communities effectively.
Focus on Medical Education:
The Medical Education Minister underscored the government’s commitment to advancing medical education and infrastructure. Noteworthy allocations include Rs 50 crore for the establishment of the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences in Ambikapur, signaling a significant leap in super-specialty healthcare provision. Additionally, plans are underway to expand Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Hospital in Raipur and relocate Bilaspur Medical College to a new location, underscoring the state’s dedication to fostering a robust healthcare ecosystem.
Holistic Approach to Healthcare:
The government’s healthcare vision extends beyond conventional medicine, with a focus on holistic wellness. Plans to integrate AYUSH systems into mainstream healthcare are underway, with an allocated budget of Rs 442.68 crore. This initiative aims to leverage traditional healing practices to complement modern medical interventions effectively.
In conclusion, Chhattisgarh’s healthcare roadmap exemplifies a comprehensive approach to address the evolving healthcare needs of its citizens, underpinned by a commitment to accessibility, affordability, and excellence.
