PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for AIIMS Darbhanga, Boosting Bihar’s Healthcare sector

New AIIMS in Darbhanga to offer state-of-the-art healthcare, benefitting Bihar, neighboring states, and even patients from Nepal.

In a historic step towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for AIIMS Darbhanga, the state’s second All India Institute of Medical Sciences after AIIMS Patna. The new AIIMS will serve the people of Bihar's Mithila, Koshi, and Tirhut regions, while also benefitting residents of neighboring states and even those from Nepal.

Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Bihar’s Governor Shri Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar, Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Shri Chirag Paswan, Bihar’s Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Samrat Choudhary and Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, Union MoS for Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai, and Bihar Health Minister Shri Mangal Pandey.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi said that AIIMS Darbhanga represents a major boost for Bihar’s healthcare sector. “The foundation of AIIMS Darbhanga will improve healthcare access not only for Bihar but also for nearby regions, including West Bengal and Nepal,” he said.

Addressing Healthcare Needs of the Poor and Middle Class

Highlighting that India’s population is primarily composed of poor and middle-class families who bear heavy healthcare expenses, Modi emphasized the government’s mission to reduce these burdens. Reflecting on the country's previous healthcare challenges, he acknowledged the past inadequacy of hospitals, doctors, and diagnostic centers. The government’s current healthcare approach now prioritizes five core areas: preventive health, accurate diagnosis, affordable healthcare, improved access in smaller towns, and the use of technology to improve health services.

“From promoting yoga, Ayurveda, and nutrition to providing clean drinking water and sanitation, we are committed to improving the health and well-being of citizens. Programs like Swachh Bharat and the Fit India Movement have already laid a foundation for better health and reduced disease,” Modi remarked.

Affordable Healthcare for All: Ayushman Bharat and More

The Prime Minister underscored the success of the Ayushman Bharat program, noting that over four crore patients have already received treatment under this scheme, saving families approximately ₹1.25 lakh crore in healthcare costs. As part of expanding free healthcare access, the government recently began providing free treatment to all senior citizens over the age of 70, regardless of income, with plans to issue Ayushman Vaya Vandana Cards to streamline services.

Additionally, affordable medicines are available through over 9,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras across India, providing significant savings for families. Modi also highlighted the upcoming 1.5 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, which will aid in early diagnosis and preventive care for millions.

Medical Education and Regional Development

Modi emphasized that AIIMS Darbhanga will support the government’s goal to increase medical education access in regional languages, part of an ongoing effort to honor the vision of prominent leaders like Karpuri Thakur. With 1 lakh new medical seats added over the past decade, the government plans to create another 75,000 seats over the next five years. As part of the new AIIMS initiative, regional language medical programs will be expanded to ensure more doctors are trained to serve local communities.

Strengthening Cancer and Specialized Care

In addition to AIIMS Darbhanga, a specialized cancer treatment facility is under development in Muzaffarpur, providing critical care options for Bihar residents who previously had to travel long distances for cancer treatment. The Prime Minister also announced a new eye hospital inspired by the recently inaugurated Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi. This hospital, supported by the Kanchi Kamakoti Shri Shankarcharya ji, will address Bihar's growing demand for advanced eye care.

Regional Impact and Development

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, noting that AIIMS Darbhanga will transform healthcare access for the entire region while also serving as a driver for socio-economic development. “AIIMS Darbhanga will improve healthcare quality and create new opportunities in education, employment, and regional development,” Kumar said.

This comprehensive healthcare expansion marks a pivotal moment for Bihar and neighboring regions, bringing advanced medical facilities and specialized care closer to millions of people. The government’s commitment to AIIMS Darbhanga represents a promising step towards inclusive growth, ensuring better health and well-being for the citizens of Bihar and beyond.

 

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