At a pivotal moment for India's healthcare landscape, Prof. V.K. Paul of NITI Aayog announced an ambitious vision to transform primary healthcare into a future-ready backbone for the nation. Speaking at the ‘FICCI HEAL 2024’ conference, he outlined the government’s unwavering commitment to build a healthcare system capable of supporting India’s transition to a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. “We’re not just implementing another healthcare program,” he emphasised, “we’re building a system that will set the foundation for a healthy, prosperous India.”

With plans extending far beyond incremental improvements, Prof. Paul sketched a roadmap for India’s healthcare sector that aligns with the nation’s broader economic aspirations. This blueprint envisions a $32 trillion economy with a transformative rise in per capita income and a health system that is not only accessible and resilient but also technologically advanced and globally influential. From improving life expectancy to embracing AI-driven healthcare, Prof. Paul’s message underscored the government's determination to lead India toward a healthier, more prosperous future.

A significant highlight of his address was the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing healthcare delivery. “India’s leadership in AI for health is paramount. We aim not only to be the biggest consumer but also the largest creator of AI in health,” Prof. Paul remarked, urging industry leaders to ensure the validation of AI technologies for safe and effective use in healthcare.

Prof. Paul also touched on ambitious goals to extend the nation’s average life expectancy from 71 to over 85 years by 2047. This vision includes enhancing the physician and bed ratios across India. Additionally, he highlighted expanded healthcare coverage for seniors, with Ayushman Bharat’s new initiative for those above 70, offering the “Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana Card.” “The government is ready with extra capacity to handle the elderly with dignity,” he noted.

Private Sector’s Role in Innovation and Access

Ms. L.S. Changsan, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the role of private sector innovation in expanding healthcare access. She called on private players to support research, new healthcare models, and economic innovation to ensure healthcare is accessible to even the country’s most remote regions. “This will enable us to provide healthcare to the poorest and most underserved communities,” she said.

International Collaboration and Young Leadership

Prof. Jonathon Robin Gray, Director of Innovation and Improvement at Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, highlighted the value of young leaders in healthcare. “Young people need to step forward into key managerial, mentoring, leadership, and coaching roles,” he urged, introducing an international initiative aimed at creating a global young leaders’ platform for healthcare.

Advancing India’s Healthcare through Digital Transformation

Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Chair of FICCI Health Services Committee and Founder of Mahajan Imaging Labs, underscored the digital evolution in India’s healthcare system. With advancements in AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics, he said, “Quality healthcare is now accessible in the remotest parts of Bharat. This digital revolution perfectly embodies the spirit of both ‘Digital India’ and ‘Swasth Bharat.’”

Collaborative Efforts for a ‘Viksit Bharat’

Dr. Anupam Sibal, Co-Chair of the FICCI Health Services Committee and Senior Pediatrician at Apollo Hospitals, spoke on the importance of partnerships in driving healthcare innovation. “Through collaboration and partnership, we can spark the innovations that will shape our nation’s future. The road to Viksit Bharat is paved with collective efforts.”

Dr. Sanjeev Singh, Co-Chair of the FICCI Health Services Committee and Medical Director at Amrita Institute, Faridabad, added, “Let us keep the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and transformation alive, working together towards a future where healthcare in India reaches new heights.”

A Vision for a Healthier India

As FICCI HEAL 2024 concluded, speakers from across healthcare and policy circles echoed a shared commitment to transforming India’s healthcare landscape. Through technology, collaboration, and proactive public-private partnerships, India’s journey to a “Viksit Bharat” appears rooted in a vision of accessible, quality healthcare for all.