Sai pitches Medicity hub as Chhattisgarh eyes next phase of health policy

Raipur: Chhattisgarh is looking to shape its next phase of healthcare policy through wider consultation even as it ramps up infrastructure, CM Vishnu Deo Sai said on Friday at the All India Health Sciences Vice Chancellors Meet-2026 in Nava Raipur.Addressing the gathering at Pt Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Health Sciences and Ayush University, Sai said deliberations at the conference would help steer policy and sharpen delivery of public health services. He described the meet as a milestone for the state, bringing together educationists, vice-chancellors and students.He noted that the state govt achieved marked progress in the health sector over the past two years. Construction work for five new medical colleges, 14 nursing colleges, and one homeopathy college remains in progress.He highlighted the impact of the Ayushman Bharat scheme under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Narendra Modi, noting that it provides financial support of up to Rs 5 lakh to poor families. He added that people no longer face the burden of debt or selling land for medical treatment.Addressing the rising prevalence of diabetes and cancer in rural areas, the chief minister pointed to central government initiatives like "Arogya Mandir" to promote healthy lifestyles. He mentioned the central government's decision to establish three Ayurvedic AIIMS across the country.Highlighting the state's potential, the chief minister noted that 44% of the state is forest cover, rich in medicinal plants. He expressed pride in Padma Shri awardee Hemchand Manjhi, whose expertise in treating serious diseases attracts patients from abroad.The CM outlined plans for a Medicity Hub in the capital region, which will include a 5,000-bed super-speciality hospital to provide world-class medical facilities. He also reported that over a dozen private hospitals opened in Raipur during his tenure.Health minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal stated that medical education now includes the option of Hindi medium. He added that the use of technology and artificial intelligence will make future health services more effective.Member of Parliament Brijmohan Agrawal emphasised the importance of extending quality health services to rural areas. He stated that suggestions from the conference will be sent to the Ministry of Ayush.