The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has organised Swasthya Chintan Shivir, a two-day event focused on healthcare. A press release on the event was issued on 15th July, 2023.
The aim of the event was to achieve last-mile connectivity in health services. The participants have engaged in comprehensive discussions on the current state of the health sector in India and the path forward to ensure universal health coverage.
During the event, Union Health Minister emphasized the importance of people’s participation in the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, a campaign to eliminate Tuberculosis (TB) in the country. He highlighted that community involvement is crucial in reducing the burden of TB, and urged individuals to become “Nikshay Mitras” to contribute to making India TB-free. Dr. Mandaviya called upon states to prioritize TB elimination and provide support to the divyang population by simplifying the process of issuing disability certificates.
Furthermore, the Health Minister stressed the need to ensure comprehensive and saturation coverage of all health schemes to ensure that no eligible beneficiary is left behind. He expressed hope that the Chintan Shivir would yield valuable suggestions on strengthening existing healthcare facilities and identifying new interventions required across the country.
Dr. VK Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog, highlighted the creation of a holistic paradigm for healthcare during the two-day event. He emphasized the importance of translating the resolutions formulated during the Shivir into action to achieve the goals set for the upcoming year.
On the final day of the event, sessions were held to discuss various aspects of healthcare in India, including the Ayushman Bhava initiative, the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme, the elimination of measles and rubella, and the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act.
