Chandigarh: HL July 17, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s public healthcare system, stating that the country is building a stronger and more accessible health network through investments in primary healthcare, telemedicine and medical education.
Addressing a public gathering in Chandigarh, the Prime Minister said that nearly 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are now delivering comprehensive healthcare services across the country. He noted that these centres are playing a vital role in bringing preventive, promotive and primary healthcare closer to communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Emphasising the role of digital health, Modi said the e-Sanjeevani telemedicine platform has facilitated more than 48 crore consultations, enabling patients to access medical advice remotely and reducing the need for long-distance travel for routine healthcare.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s focus on expanding medical education. He said the number of medical colleges in India has nearly doubled since 2014, significantly increasing opportunities for aspiring doctors. He announced that approval has been granted for establishing an MBBS college at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, which is expected to further strengthen medical education and healthcare services in the region.
Among the key projects announced were a Neuroscience Centre, a Mother and Child Centre, and a Critical Care Hospital Block at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER). Modi said the facilities would improve treatment access for millions of people across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir.
He also recalled inaugurating the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital in 2022 and said India has rapidly expanded its healthcare infrastructure over the last decade through new AIIMS institutions, medical colleges and speciality hospitals.
Concluding his address, Modi said that achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat would require sustained investment in advanced healthcare infrastructure, modern transportation, cutting-edge technology and research. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating institutions and public infrastructure that will support future generations while improving the quality of life for citizens across the country.
