Guwahati: In a significant development for pharmaceutical education and healthcare in India, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers & Health and Family Welfare, virtually inaugurated the permanent campus of the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) in Guwahati, Assam. The Union Minister also laid the foundation stones of NIPER Hyderabad and NIPER Raebareli. Simultaneously, Dr. Mandaviya dedicated five new facilities in the Regional Institute of Paramedical and Nursing Science (RIPANS) in Aizawl, Mizoram, boosting healthcare infrastructure in the Northeast.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Shri Bhagwanth Khuba, Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilisers & New and Renewable Energy; Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Minister of Assam; Prof. Manik Saha, Chief Minister of Tripura; Shri Keshab Mahanta, Health Minister of Assam; Smt. Lalrinpuii, Health Minister of Mizoram.
Expressing his elation at the inauguration of three NIPERs, Dr. Mandaviya stated that these institutes play a crucial role in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India self-reliant in the pharmaceutical and MedTech sector. NIPERs have gained national prominence with around 8,000 graduates and over 380 registered patents.
Highlighting the significance of NIPER Guwahati, Dr. Mandaviya mentioned that the sprawling campus, spread across 60 acres, reflects the government’s commitment to progressive development in the Northeast. The NIPERs are poised to integrate research, training, and manpower creation, contributing to the global pharmaceutical industry.
The Union Health Minister emphasized the government’s vision for NIPERs to contribute significantly to overall human health and well-being, both nationally and globally. The inauguration of NIPER Guwahati stands as a testament to fostering a self-reliant Northeast and a unified nation.
Dr. Mandaviya underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the Northeast, emphasizing the ‘Act East’ mantra over ‘Look East.’ The region has witnessed substantial development in education, health, connectivity, and employment, with schemes like Vibrant Village and initiatives in health services, including the establishment of institutions like RIMS, RIPANS, NEIGRIHMS, and AIIMS Guwahati.
The Union Minister noted that the Northeastern states have received a significant allocation of funds under the Pradhan Mantri – Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), and the National Health Mission (NHM). A substantial amount has been earmarked for the dedication of the Super Specialty Block at Assam Medical College.
The healthcare infrastructure initiatives in the Northeast, totaling over 80 units across 7 states, represent a crucial step in creating a robust and resilient healthcare system to address evolving needs.
“The health facilities created in the 7 states of the Northeast will provide treatment, training, and employment opportunities, opening new doors of progress in these areas,” said Dr. Mandaviya. He applauded Assam for its efforts in creating a grid of Cancer Treatment Centers with the assistance of Tata Memorial Institute.
Shri Bhagwanth Khuba highlighted the alignment of these initiatives with Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to the health sector. NIPERs contribute significantly to creating a skilled workforce, supporting the sector’s growth and development.
The Union Minister also emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s dominance in the pharmaceutical sector and reduce dependence on imported APIs and medical devices. Initiatives such as the creation of three bulk drug parks and the launch of the PLI scheme in the pharma and MedTech sector were highlighted.
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma commended the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in achieving excellence in the pharmaceutical domain and inaugurating NIPERs. The inauguration of NIPER Guwahati signifies the rise of new research possibilities in Assam and the Northeast region.
Prof. Manik Saha underscored the importance of healthcare infrastructure in the Northeast and praised the government’s commitment to advancing research and innovation in pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors. The newly inaugurated infrastructure will catalyze advancements, adding value to the entire nation.