Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh today inaugurated the state-of-the-art Super Specialty Neurosurgery and Cardiovascular Surgery Building Block at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology (SCTIMST) under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana’ (PMSSY). He emphasized that the Modi government’s initiatives are focused on ensuring quality healthcare is both affordable and accessible to all sections of society.
Union Minister described SCTIMST as a model institution that integrates science, technology, and medical advancements, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a holistic healthcare approach.
Addressing the gathering, he commended SCTIMST for excelling in both healthcare services and medical research, including the development of innovative, cost-effective medical devices and procedures. He highlighted that the institute, operating under the Department of Science and Technology, exemplifies the “whole-of-government” approach by fostering collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Science and Technology. He also acknowledged the contributions of scientists, researchers, and medical professionals in establishing India as a global leader in medical research and innovation.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized that the PMSSY initiative is a key part of India’s broader effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure. He stated that the scheme aims to provide high-quality medical care while fostering indigenous innovation in health-related research and development. The newly inaugurated PMSSY Building at SCTIMST will significantly enhance the institute’s capacity by offering state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, specialized medical research labs, and improved infrastructure for patient care. Additionally, it will serve as a hub for advanced medical training, enabling knowledge exchange among healthcare professionals.
He connected the project to India’s larger healthcare ecosystem, which includes the Ayushman Bharat initiative—the world’s largest health insurance program—and the newly introduced universal health coverage for citizens above 70 years. Stressing the importance of integrating modern medical advancements with traditional healthcare practices, Dr. Singh highlighted the role of digital health initiatives, artificial intelligence in diagnostics, and genome-based therapies in transforming healthcare delivery.
Discussing India’s achievements in biotechnology, he pointed to the success of the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, the development of the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer, and advancements in gene therapy. He noted that India has evolved from an importer to a global leader in preventive healthcare, earning international recognition in bio-manufacturing and medical research. Dr. Singh further emphasized the need for continued investment in healthcare research and development to ensure India remains at the forefront of medical innovation.
Union Minister. Jitendra Singh emphasized the importance of strategic specialization, suggesting that SCTIMST establish itself as a global leader in neurosurgery and cardiovascular research to enhance its international standing. “Having a distinct identity in a specialized field attracts global recognition and boosts medical tourism, similar to top institutes in the U.S.,” he remarked. He also encouraged scientists and medical professionals to collaborate with global institutions on research projects to expand their knowledge and expertise.
The Minister highlighted that while India has made significant progress in narrowing the rural-urban gap in disease patterns, ensuring widespread healthcare accessibility remains a challenge. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening medical services by establishing new AIIMS institutions and upgrading medical colleges, ensuring affordable and high-quality treatment for all. Additionally, he advocated for the use of telemedicine and mobile health units to reach remote areas, making quality healthcare more accessible across the country.
The event witnessed the participation of prominent figures from the medical and scientific community, including senior officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology, healthcare professionals, and researchers. The inauguration of the PMSSY Building at SCTIMST represents a significant step in India’s progress toward a self-sufficient and globally competitive healthcare system. Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the country’s healthcare infrastructure, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in medical innovation and patient care.
