PM Modi meets 2,500 children who underwent free heart surgeries at Sri Sathya Sai Hospital

RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday interacted with 2,500 children at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Child Heart Hospital in Nava Raipur, during the hospital’s special programme titled “Dil Ki Baat.” These children had successfully undergone free cardiac surgeries under the hospital’s “Gift of Life” initiative, an effort that has already changed the lives of more than 25,000 children across India and neighbouring countries.

Prime Minister spoke affectionately with the young patients and their families, asking about their health, studies, and dreams for the future. At one point, he was seen embracing a child, a spontaneous gesture that drew smiles and applause from the audience.

During his address, Modi lauded the hospital’s selfless service in providing free, high-quality cardiac care to children from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. “No child should lose life because of lack of resources,” he said, praising the doctors and volunteers for their commitment to compassion-driven healthcare

Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar was also present at the event, adding to the emotional resonance of the programme.

In an informal chat with the patients; PM asked them if they knew about Man Ki Baat and said that I have come to have Dil Ki Baat with you. Modi told them that Sanjeevani has cured an ailment. Now they should keep themselves free from any other disease. "Sound health is a must for a meaningful life. Be a part of my campaign: Ek Ped Maa ke Naam," PM told the children.

Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital in Nava Raipur has emerged as a national model of free medical service, having no cash counter at the premises. More than 400 doctors, nurses, and staff are currently working round the clock as part of a mega health camp where around 3,200 registered children with serious heart ailments have been treated.