Union Health Minister Inaugurates Vivekananda Cancer & Super Speciality Hospital in Latur, Maharashtra

February: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, inaugurated the Vivekananda Cancer & Super Speciality Extension Hospital at the Vivekanand Medical Foundation and Research Centre in Latur, Maharashtra. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Shri Mohan Madhukar Rao Bhagwat, Sarsanghchalak of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

During the event, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the significance of traditional healthcare systems in addressing modern-day health challenges, especially evident during recent crises such as the pandemic. Emphasizing the preventive and promotive approach of traditional healthcare, he stressed its instrumental role in tackling health issues.

Dr. Mandaviya urged India to strengthen its health model, aligning it with Indian genetics and focusing on continental patterns of diseases relevant to its geography. He emphasized the need to reflect on traditional ways of living, lifestyle, and food, stating that solutions to many health issues can be found in India’s heritage.

Addressing the increase in cancer and mental health patients over the last five years, the Union Minister stated, “Traditional systems of living and food provide many medicinal insights and can play a pivotal role in mitigation of these alarming changes in healthcare scenarios.”

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is committed to fostering equality in healthcare services, making them affordable and accessible through various initiatives ensuring last-mile delivery, according to Dr. Mandaviya. He appreciated the dedication of Indian healthcare professionals and highlighted the values of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ especially evident during the COVID crisis, showcasing India’s strengths in the medical and pharmaceutical sector.

Dr. Mandaviya reiterated that health is perceived as a service in India, deeply rooted in the country’s culture. He emphasized the nation’s goal to create a people-centric, value-based healthcare system, stating, “Our culture taught us to serve people. Health is not commerce but a service inherent in our culture.”

Highlighting India’s global contribution to health services, the Union Health Minister mentioned, “3 out of 10 medical research professionals abroad are Indians.” He expressed India’s commitment to working holistically in the health sector, integrating preventive healthcare with modern medical facilities, and leading initiatives like Jan Andolan to ensure healthcare reaches all in the nation.