Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched three significant healthcare projects in Odisha via a virtual event from New Delhi.
Modi inaugurated the Central Drugs Testing Laboratory at Gothapatna near Bhubaneswar, laid the foundation stone for the Central Research Institute of Yoga and Naturopathy in Binjhagiri, Khordha district, and inaugurated a Critical Care Centre at Bargarh.
According to an official press release, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, while participating in a program organized at Gothapatna, highlighted the importance of the new laboratory, describing it as a testament to the Central Government’s commitment to Odisha’s development.
He praised the establishment of this state-of-the-art facility, noting that it will expedite drug testing and quality control. Previously, Odisha relied on laboratories outside the state for drug testing, but the new facility will enable faster and more efficient testing, benefiting citizens through improved access to quality medicines.
The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Central Government for establishing a facility that will serve the nation from Odisha.
Additionally, Prime Minister Modi launched an extension of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana for citizens above 70 years of age, which Chief Minister Majhi referred to as a “Diwali gift” for seniors, regardless of income. He commended the Prime Minister for revolutionizing the healthcare sector with Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance scheme, which benefits around 50 crore people.
Majhi stated that the state government plans to implement both the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and its own ‘Gopabandhu Jan Arogya’ health scheme soon, which will provide extensive health coverage for Odisha’s citizens.
The Chief Minister noted that healthcare is a top priority for his administration, as evidenced by the budget allocation of more than Rs 21,000 crore for healthcare this year—a 32% increase from the previous year, representing 8% of the state’s total budget.
He thanked the Prime Minister for launching the U-WIN portal to enhance the vaccination system, the drone service system for healthcare in remote areas, and various digital initiatives for healthcare professionals.
Highlighting the significance of Ayurveda and Yoga, Majhi acknowledged the ancient Indian traditions as invaluable contributions to global wellness.
He credited the Prime Minister’s advocacy of Yoga for its growing worldwide popularity, especially since 2015, when June 21 was declared International Yoga Day.
According to the Chief Minister, Yoga has become a daily practice worldwide, thanks to the Prime Minister’s dedication to promoting India’s cultural heritage.
Also present at the event were Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling, who praised the Prime Minister for universalizing healthcare access in India, and MLA Babu Singh, who lauded Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047.
Singh expressed optimism about Odisha’s future growth under the Prime Minister’s leadership.
The Director General of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (DCGI) delivered the welcome address, while Health and Family Welfare Commissioner-cum-Secretary Ashwati S. extended the vote of thanks, concluding the event on a positive note.
