NEW DELHI: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh recently emphasized the need for tailored healthcare solutions in India, leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). During the “International Health Dialogue” held by the Apollo Corporate Group, he spoke of the importance of “Indian regimens for Indian patients.”
Dr. Singh pointed out that India is becoming a global leader in healthcare, thanks to innovations in preventive care, research, and technology. He stressed how AI is changing the way healthcare is delivered, making it more accessible, especially in rural areas where medical experts are hard to find. “AI is revolutionizing diagnostics and patient monitoring,” he noted.
He provided an example from his constituency, where an AI-driven mobile clinic combines technology with real doctor consultations. This hybrid approach allows patients in remote locations to receive a prescription from specialists within 40 to 50 minutes through telemedicine. “AI is here to assist, not replace, our doctors,” he clarified.
However, Dr. Singh also warned against relying too much on AI. He shared a story about an AI-based public grievance system that required a human desk to handle sensitive issues. “Technology should support our decisions, not take their place,” he said.
Addressing India’s specific health challenges, he highlighted the dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases, including rising cases of diabetes among younger people. While India has a young population, the number of elderly citizens is also increasing, requiring a comprehensive healthcare strategy.
Dr. Singh also discussed innovative public health management, including the use of nuclear technology for effective sewage disposal during the Kumbh Mela, ensuring cleanliness for millions of participants. “This is a unique opportunity for India to develop our own solutions,” he asserted.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has seen significant advancements in healthcare. Dr. Singh praised the Ayushman Bharat initiative for making healthcare more inclusive by covering pre-existing conditions. With plans for over 1.5 lakh wellness centers and a dedicated Ministry of Ayush, India aims to blend traditional and modern medicine seamlessly.
India’s role in vaccine development is also noteworthy. Dr. Singh recalled the country’s achievements, including the first DNA vaccine for COVID-19 and the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer. He stated that India is now a major player in biomanufacturing, ranking highly in the Asia-Pacific region.
He noted the growth of India’s biotechnology sector, with the number of biotech startups skyrocketing from 50 in 2014 to over 9,000 today, contributing to a booming bioeconomy worth over $130 billion. Dr. Singh also announced a breakthrough in antibiotic development with Naphthomycin and successful gene therapy trials for hemophilia.
In closing, Dr. Singh reaffirmed the government’s dedication to establishing India as a global health leader through preventive healthcare and local innovations. “For *Viksit Bharat*, we need a *Swasth Bharat*,” he concluded. The conference gathered healthcare experts and industry leaders to discuss advancements in AI in healthcare, biotechnology, and digital health solutions.
