Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla described India’s healthcare system as qualitative, accessible and affordable, highlighting the country’s significant advances in medical infrastructure, service delivery and innovation. Speaking at the inauguration of the 7th Annual International Conference of the Innovative Physicians Forum (IPF MEDICON 2025) in New Delhi, he stated that India has successfully improved the quality of healthcare while ensuring it remains within the reach of every citizen. He praised the shift toward a more inclusive and patient-centric approach, commending national initiatives that have elevated health outreach, expanded digital healthcare access, and made affordable treatment a reality.
Birla said India’s doctors are enhancing their global reputation by adopting cutting-edge technologies and fostering innovation, even as developed countries face rising healthcare challenges. He called the IPF conference a vital platform for discussing new research, emerging technologies and solutions that can address both current and future challenges in medicine. He noted that Indian physicians are earning international recognition for their excellence. Despite resource limitations, the dedication and sacrifice of doctors, healthcare workers and paramedical staff enabled India to successfully manage the COVID-19 pandemic, a true testament to the reliability and strength of India’s healthcare ecosystem.
He emphasised that India is rapidly becoming a global hub for pharmaceuticals and medical research, backed by advancements in drug manufacturing, vaccine production and biomedical innovation. India’s skilled scientists, strong research infrastructure and sustained focus on discovery are helping address both domestic and global healthcare needs. He highlighted the Government of India’s consistent efforts in this sector, especially promoting research, innovation and initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, which provides free healthcare to the underprivileged.
Birla stressed the urgent importance of innovation and research in medicine, calling it the need of the hour. He said scientific and technological breakthroughs must be harnessed to overcome emerging healthcare challenges and improve patient care. Encouraging a culture of innovation, he said investment in medical research is crucial for developing new treatments, advancing disease prevention and fortifying the overall healthcare ecosystem. He urged scientists, institutions and policymakers to work together to ensure medical progress benefits both India and the world at large.
He stated that the conference was not just an event but a global platform for the advancement of human welfare. He expressed hope that through research, innovation and collective effort, the forum would help build a healthier global society. He also noted that discussions at the conference would explore the use of artificial intelligence, robotics, digital tools and other emerging technologies to create a healthcare system that is efficient, human-centred and future-ready.
Medical representatives from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and the United Kingdom also participated in the conference. Member of Parliament Kamaljeet Sehrawat was also present at the event.
