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Patna, September 6, 2024 – Union Health Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda inaugurated the newly constructed Regional Institute of Ophthalmology at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Science (IGIMS) in Patna today. The event marked a significant step in enhancing eye care services in Bihar and nearby regions, including Bengal, Odisha, and Nepal.
During the inauguration, JP Nadda reminisced about his prior visit to IGIMS in 2019 when he laid the foundation stone for the ophthalmology department. “The last foundation stone I laid as a minister was here, in the presence of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. It’s fitting that my first inauguration after resuming office is also here at IGIMS,” Nadda remarked.
The Union Health Minister also highlighted the strides made in India’s health sector over the past decade under the Modi government. “There were only six All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) when we began, and today, we have 22 across the country,” Nadda stated. He further announced the establishment of a new AIIMS in Darbhanga and expressed his gratitude to CM Nitish Kumar for providing the necessary land.
India’s Health Coverage Milestone: Ayushman Bharat
Nadda emphasized India’s leadership in healthcare access, citing the Ayushman Bharat scheme as the world’s largest health coverage program. “Through Ayushman Bharat, we provide financial protection of up to ₹5 lakh to 55 crore individuals, ensuring that even the poorest receive necessary healthcare,” he said.
He went on to explain that India’s focus on universal healthcare has led to significant improvements in medical infrastructure, especially in underserved regions like Bihar. The minister also noted that IGIMS serves not only Bihar but also neighboring states and countries, making it a crucial healthcare hub for the region.
Bihar’s Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar echoed Nadda’s sentiments, detailing the significant improvements in healthcare in Bihar over the last two decades. “Back in 2005, the healthcare situation was dire. Medicines and doctors were in short supply, and only 39 patients visited for primary care each month. Today, we see over 11,000 patients every month at IGIMS alone,” Kumar said.
The Chief Minister also outlined the ambitious expansion plans for IGIMS. “From an initial 770 beds, we now have 1,370, with plans to further expand to 2,500. A new 1,200-bed super specialty hospital will also be constructed by next year.”
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The newly inaugurated Regional Institute of Ophthalmology boasts world-class modular operation theaters equipped with the latest technology. Nadda and Kumar both expressed confidence that these advanced facilities would significantly improve access to quality eye care in the state.
As part of his visit, Nadda also met with Bihar’s Chief Minister to discuss ongoing healthcare initiatives and political strategies. He expressed his contentment with the collaboration between the state and central governments in improving health services, affirming that Bihar is on a steady path to becoming a leader in medical infrastructure.
Conclusion
With the inauguration of the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology at IGIMS, Bihar is set to become a key player in providing high-quality healthcare services, not only within India but across the region. This development, combined with the ongoing efforts under Ayushman Bharat, represents a milestone in the country’s journey toward achieving universal health coverage.
