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On World Diabetes Day, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, a renowned diabetologist, called for collaborative effort to check the Diabetes epidemic in India.
Addressing an audience comprising of some of the bet and most celebrated brains in the field of Diabetology including President of the International Diabetes Federation Dr Peter Schwarz, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted this year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” calling for a united approach to ensure that every individual has access to affordable, high-quality diabetes care.
With millions of cases in India, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised that the diabetes challenge extends beyond treatment alone. He pointed to the gaps in healthcare accessibility, awareness, and adherence to treatment, noting that nearly half of those diagnosed remain unaware of their condition or struggle to maintain regular treatment due to financial or informational barriers. This, he said, is a “systemic gap” that requires attention and action from both the public and private sectors.
During his address, the Minister introduced a concept he termed “PPP plus PPP” – or “public-private partnership domestically, collaborating with public-private partnerships internationally.” He outlined this model as a two-tiered collaboration where India’s public and private sectors unite internally to strengthen healthcare infrastructure while simultaneously engaging with international counterparts. The Minister emphasised that by building this layered partnership model, India can accelerate innovation, improve healthcare accessibility, and drive sustainable, scalable solutions for diabetes care. This collaborative framework, he noted, is key to tackling healthcare challenges of such vast proportions and harnessing global expertise for local benefit.
The Minister also acknowledged the presence of Dr. Peter Schwarz, Head of the International Diabetes Federation, praising his leadership in addressing the global diabetes crisis. He expressed optimism about working closely with Dr. Peter and the Federation to foster impactful international partnerships that bring best practices and resources to India. “With leaders like Dr. Peter, we have the potential to enhance diabetes care in India by learning from successful global models and adapting them to our needs,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said, emphasizing that international cooperation would drive meaningful progress in diabetes care.
Dr Jitendra Singh further highlighted the Ministry of Science and Technology’s initiatives to develop accessible diabetes monitoring tools, including smart, non-invasive devices that empower patients to manage their health more easily. Dr. Jitendra Singh cited ongoing efforts to advance cost-effective medical devices and AI-driven solutions, reflecting the government’s commitment to making healthcare affordable and accessible.
Concluding his address, the Minister underscored that diabetes care and prevention are far too significant to be left solely to medical professionals. Instead, they demand a unified national response from healthcare providers, policymakers, families, and communities. “Diabetes is a national issue that impacts millions, and through combined efforts, we can bridge the gaps in awareness, care, and treatment accessibility,” he remarked.
As World Diabetes Day raises awareness globally, Dr. Jitendra Singh’s message serves as a call to action, urging a concerted effort to build a future where quality diabetes care is within reach for every Indian.
