Asks medico MLAs to take up pressing health, governance issues
Nishikant Khajuria
JAMMU, Mar 23: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh today said that Jammu and Kashmir can foster healthcare sector by developing an integrated ecosystem and reducing dependence on Government.
“Initiatives like medical research start-ups, private healthcare faculties and public-private partnership can significantly boost the healthcare system in regions like Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, while addressing a function organized by `Friends of GMC Jammu’, here today.
Stressing the need to reduce dependence on Government driven solution and encourage private participation in healthcare, Dr Jitendra emphasized for an integrated approach to further strengthen the sector, urging greater collaboration between Government, private industry and research institutions.
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The Union Minister pointed to the success of India’s space sector privatization, which has spurred innovation and investment, as an example of how healthcare sector can also be benefit from reduced bureaucratic hurdles.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to innovation in the health sector, Dr Jitendra Singh spoke about the potential of biotech and medical research in shaping the future economy. He noted that India’s bio-manufacturing sector now ranks the top three in the Asia-Pacific region, further attracting global collaborations, including interest from figures like Bill Gates.
“The time has come when the world is looking at us for collaboration as our success stories, whether in space or other sectors, have made a mark,” he said and added that regions like Jammu which have human as well as natural resources will play crucial role as the nation moves forward.
On the occasion, Dr Jitendra Singh as the chief guest felicitated medico MLAs from Jammu and Kashmir, acknowledging their contributions to both the healthcare sector and public service. He emphasized the unique role of medical professionals in governance, stating that their background equips them with a deep sense of responsibility, ethics, and service-mindedness essential for leadership.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, a medico-turned-politician himself, highlighted that many of India’s most successful doctor-politicians have earned public trust by maintaining professional integrity while in medical practice. Citing examples from history, he noted that doctors who transitioned into politics carried forward their commitment to public welfare, reinforcing faith in the system.
Reflecting on his own journey from medicine to politics, Dr. Jitendra Singh shared how public faith in a practitioner often translates into electoral success. “If you are a popular, sincere and trusted medical practitioner, people are more likely to support you in public life,” he remarked.
The Minister urged the medico MLAs to take up pressing health and governance issues, particularly in rural areas where medical professionals can play a pivotal role in shaping policies that directly impact people’s lives. He emphasized that their presence in legislative bodies gives them a unique opportunity to advocate for health reforms and better medical infrastructure.
The event saw participation from several eminent personalities, including senior doctors, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. Dr Jitendra Singh expressed confidence that the medico MLAs would use their expertise and leadership to bring about tangible improvements in healthcare policies and service delivery.
Founder of the ‘Friends of GMC Jammu’, Prof T R Raina, Principal GMC Jammu Dr Ashutosh Gupta and Prof Pawan Malhotra also spoke on the occasion.
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