Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda, addressed the 8th Convocation Ceremony of Swami Rama Himalayan University in Dehradun and congratulated the graduating students on completing their academic journey.
Convocation Marks Transition to Professional Responsibility
While addressing the gathering, Shri Nadda described the convocation as both special and significant. He noted that the ceremony reflects years of dedication and perseverance. At the same time, it marks the beginning of a new phase of professional responsibility and service.
He urged the graduates to uphold the highest ideals of the medical profession, strive continuously for excellence, and dedicate their knowledge and skills to the service of humanity.
Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure Nationwide
Highlighting the transformation in India’s health sector over the past eleven years, the Minister stated that the number of All India Institute of Medical Sciences institutions has increased from 6 to 23, thereby expanding access to advanced tertiary healthcare services across the country.
Furthermore, he pointed out that institutional deliveries have risen to nearly 89 percent, reflecting stronger maternal healthcare systems nationwide.
Significant Gains in Maternal and Child Health
Shri Nadda emphasized measurable improvements in key health indicators. He stated that the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has declined from 130 to 88 per lakh live births over the past decade. Similarly, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has reduced from 39 to 27 per thousand live births.
In addition, citing estimates from the World Health Organization and other UN agencies, he said India has achieved a faster decline in the Under-5 Mortality Rate compared to the global average, demonstrating the impact of targeted policy interventions.
Progress in TB Control and COVID-19 Vaccination
Referring to tuberculosis control efforts, the Minister stated that India has recorded a substantial decline in TB incidence, outperforming the global average reduction through sustained public health measures and community-based interventions.
Moreover, he highlighted India’s historic COVID-19 vaccination drive, under which more than 220 crore vaccine doses, including precautionary and booster doses, were administered nationwide. He described the campaign as a testament to the resilience and efficiency of India’s public health system.
Financial Protection Through Ayushman Bharat
As reported by pib.gov.in, emphasizing financial security in healthcare, Shri Nadda spoke about Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), which provides health coverage of ₹5 lakh per family. He stated that the scheme now benefits nearly 62 crore people, covering approximately 40 percent of India’s population.
He further noted that independent evaluations and reputed international medical journals have reported improved access to timely cancer care and enhanced financial protection under the scheme. Consequently, India has witnessed a substantial reduction in Out-of-Pocket Expenditure on healthcare over the past decade, easing the burden on economically vulnerable households.
Strengthening Primary Healthcare Delivery
Underscoring the importance of comprehensive primary care, the Minister informed that more than 1.82 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandir centres have been operationalized nationwide as the first point of contact for citizens. Of these, 50,000 centres have received National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification. The government now aims to scale this number to one lakh NQAS-certified centres in the near future.
Uttarakhand Leadership Highlights Regional Healthcare Growth
Speaking on the occasion, Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, congratulated the graduates and highlighted the State Government’s initiatives to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, medical education, and emergency services, particularly in remote and hilly regions. He emphasized the critical role of Swami Rama Himalayan University in developing a skilled healthcare workforce for both the State and the nation.
Similarly, Dhan Singh Rawat, Minister of Medical Health and Higher Education, Uttarakhand, appreciated the University’s contribution to advancing medical and higher education. He encouraged graduates to contribute actively to research, innovation, and public health services, especially in underserved areas.