New Delhi: In a forward-looking and inspiring keynote address delivered at the ET Doctor’s Day Conclave, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Atomic Energy, and Space, emphasized that India is at the cusp of a health-tech revolution. He stated that the nation is entering a defining era in medical science, driven by innovation, integration, and inclusive policy, with an eye on the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Space Medicine to Preventive Genomics: A New Medical Frontier
Dr. Singh hailed Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s upcoming mission to the International Space Station carrying indigenous life science kits as a landmark moment. “This could soon give rise to a brand-new discipline in India: Space Medicine,” he stated, highlighting the need for futuristic planning, including dedicated streams for Space Physicians in Indian medical academia.
This mission is expected to not only test India’s technological edge in microgravity but also catalyze a deeper understanding of human physiology in outer space, paving the way for innovations in high-stress medicine, regenerative therapies, and diagnostics.
India’s Bi-Phasic Demographic Challenge
Dr. Singh drew attention to India’s unique demographic transition, calling it a “bi-phasic challenge”—with over 70% of the population under 40, while also witnessing a rapid increase in its elderly population. “From a life expectancy of 50-55 years in 1947 to nearly 80 today, India must now gear up to meet both geriatric and youthful healthcare needs,” he said.
He emphasized that this dual demographic must be met with a balanced policy focus on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and cancer, alongside persistent communicable threats, especially in the post-COVID era.
India’s Global Leap in Healthcare Innovation
Dr. Singh showcased India’s achievements in preventive and precision healthcare, citing:
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The world’s first DNA vaccine for COVID-19
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The indigenously developed HPV vaccine for cervical cancer
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India’s first gene therapy trial for haemophilia, published in the New England Journal of Medicine
He further announced the launch of Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic molecule, representing a significant advancement in domestic pharmaceutical R&D.
Synergy Between Academia, Industry & Policy
Dr. Singh credited early-stage collaboration with the private sector for these breakthroughs. “The future lies in public-private synergy, institutional innovation, and a unified approach to R&D and healthcare delivery,” he said.
He revealed that premier technical institutes like IIT Kanpur and IISc Bengaluru are setting up medical schools to foster interdisciplinary integration. This model aims to create a new generation of professionals fluent in technology and clinical practice, ensuring holistic education in the healthcare domain.
Harnessing Tech for Inclusive, Affordable Care
India is setting global benchmarks in affordable healthcare models such as Ayushman Bharat, and innovation-driven institutions like Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute that combine clinical care, research, and manufacturing. These serve as blueprints for sustainable and scalable systems.
Dr. Singh also lauded Tata Memorial Centre as India’s pioneer in implementing 100% digital and cashless cancer care, showing the potential of tech-enabled healthcare ecosystems.
The Minister stressed the use of AI, machine learning, telemedicine, and early mass screening for transforming public health, and called for institutional support and investment in these areas.
Innovations in Public Health Infrastructure
Dr. Singh highlighted India’s hygiene and sanitation innovation during large gatherings like the Kumbh Mela, where radiation-based faecal sludge treatment plants (FSTPs) ensured sanitation for over 40 crore pilgrims, demonstrating India’s ability to manage public health at scale without compromising safety.
He also mentioned the launch of Mission Mausam, which focuses on climate-health resilience, including early warning systems for health impacts from climate-related disasters.
Carrying Forward the Science and Soul of Medicine- by Dr. JITENDRA SINGH
In conclusion, Dr. Jitendra Singh called for a “transformative healthcare ecosystem” that is not only technologically advanced but also human-centered and inclusive. “Let us not hand over everything to the technocrats. A bit of the doctor must remain. We must carry forward both the science and the soul of medicine,” he said.
He urged for broader collaboration between government, academia, industry, and civil society, stressing that India’s path to Viksit Bharat @2047 must be paved with innovation, integration, and empathy.
For more details, check press release on PIB webiste.
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