PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute in MP

Chhatarpur: In a major boost to healthcare and scientific research, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the foundation stone for the Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science Research Institute in Garha village, Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh. The institute, spanning 10 acres, will initially house a 100-bed facility, offering advanced medical care and research opportunities.

Speaking at the event, PM Modi emphasized that Bageshwar Dham, which has been a spiritual center, will soon become a hub for healthcare and medical research. He congratulated Shri Dhirendra Shastri for spearheading this initiative and extended his greetings to the people of Bundelkhand.

Highlighting the role of religious institutions in healthcare, the Prime Minister noted that several temples and monasteries in India have historically doubled as centers of science, learning, and social welfare. He underscored the contributions of Ayurveda and Yoga, which originated from Indian sages and are now recognized globally.

PM Modi took the opportunity to criticize certain political entities that, he claimed, seek to divide people based on religion. He alleged that such forces receive external support to weaken India’s unity. He also acknowledged the increasing attacks on Indian traditions, temples, and religious customs, urging people to remain vigilant.

He praised Shri Dhirendra Shastri for advocating social unity and announced that he had also pledged to establish a cancer institute, ensuring that Bageshwar Dham becomes a center not only for faith but also for health and community welfare.

PM Modi drew attention to various health initiatives underway during the Maha Kumbh, particularly the Netra Maha Kumbh, a large-scale eye-care initiative that has facilitated over two lakh eye check-ups and provided free medicines and glasses to thousands. He also recognized the efforts of doctors and volunteers in providing medical assistance to pilgrims.

The Prime Minister lauded sanitation workers and security personnel for ensuring a smooth and safe Kumbh experience. He described the event as a “Maha Kumbh of Unity”, bringing people together from across the country.

Reflecting on the healthcare revolution under his government, PM Modi stated that before 2014, the poor feared medical expenses more than the illness itself. He shared his personal experience of witnessing families fall into financial crisis due to healthcare costs and reaffirmed his resolve to make treatment more affordable.

Key announcements included:

• Ayushman Cards for Free Treatment: Every individual above 70 years of age, regardless of economic status, will now be eligible for free treatment under Ayushman Bharat.
• Expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras: Over 14,000 centers now provide affordable medicines, reducing healthcare costs for millions.
• Dialysis Services for Kidney Patients: More than 1,500 dialysis centers have been opened in over 700 districts, offering free dialysis services.
• Cancer Care Expansion: The government will establish cancer daycare centers in every district within the next three years.

PM Modi stressed the importance of early detection, urging citizens to undergo regular screenings for cancer and other diseases. He also warned against tobacco use, emphasizing that gutka, bidi, and cigarettes significantly increase cancer risks.

The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to Bundelkhand’s progress, recalling his recent visit to Chhatarpur, where he inaugurated projects worth thousands of crores.

Key development initiatives in Bundelkhand include:

• Ken-Betwa Link Project: A ₹45,000 crore irrigation initiative to resolve the region’s water scarcity.
• Har Ghar Jal Project: Providing piped drinking water to rural households.
• Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: The launch of Lakhpati Didi and Drone Didi initiatives to train women in operating drones for agriculture, aiming to make three crore women financially independent.
• Swamitva Yojana: Use of drone technology for accurate land measurement, enabling easier bank loans for villagers.

PM Modi expressed confidence that Bundelkhand is on the path to rapid economic and social development. He reiterated his government’s dedication to ensuring that every household in the region benefits from infrastructure projects, healthcare reforms, and employment opportunities.

Concluding his speech, he extended his best wishes to the people of Bundelkhand, reaffirming his commitment to making the region self-reliant and prosperous.

The event was attended by Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and other dignitaries.