Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir – In a significant stride towards improving healthcare accessibility in the remote regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the ‘Aarogya Doctors on Wheels’ initiative in Udhampur district. This innovative mobile healthcare service is designed to bring free medical consultations and treatments directly to the doorsteps of villagers, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
The launch took place during an exhibition on the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) in Udhampur, where Minister Singh emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative. He highlighted that the mobile ambulance service can conduct comprehensive patient examinations and provide prescriptions within a remarkable 45-minute timeframe, a substantial improvement over the time typically required for hospital visits.
Singh stressed the importance of inclusivity in healthcare, noting that the initiative allows patients to communicate with doctors in their native languages, ensuring that medical consultations are both effective and culturally sensitive. He called for increased corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions to sustain and expand this healthcare start-up, which he believes has the potential to significantly enhance the well-being of rural populations.
In addition to launching the ‘Aarogya Doctors on Wheels’ initiative, Singh engaged with local women self-help groups and startups, underscoring the role of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) in empowering women and fostering self-employment among the youth. He praised the program for its impact on community development and economic growth in the region.
During his visit, Singh also reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity in remote areas, a critical factor in ensuring that initiatives like ‘Aarogya Doctors on Wheels’ can reach their full potential. He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access and overall quality of life for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly those living in its most isolated regions.
The ‘Aarogya Doctors on Wheels’ initiative represents a significant step towards bridging the healthcare gap in rural India, demonstrating how innovative approaches can bring essential services closer to those in need. With continued support and expansion, this initiative could serve as a model for similar efforts across the country, contributing to a healthier and more equitable future for all.