Jitendra Singh hails decade of transformation in Indian medical education

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday emphasized the sweeping changes in medical education and healthcare in India over the past decade, noting a shift toward accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity. Speaking at the 54th Foundation Day and Convocation of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS), University of Delhi, Singh conferred degrees on undergraduate and postgraduate students, urging them to embrace innovation while remaining compassionate.

Highlighting the expansion of medical education, Singh noted that India now offers nearly 1.5 lakh undergraduate medical seats compared to 45,000 a decade ago. The growth of institutions like AIIMS, he said, has democratized access and encouraged more women to pursue medical careers. He described healthcare transformation as “three-fold: accessible, affordable, and available,” crediting initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and Jan Aushadhi Kendras for improving public health delivery.

Singh also pointed to India’s rising global stature in life sciences, citing the development of the world’s first DNA COVID-19 vaccine, HPV vaccine for cervical cancer, the indigenous antibiotic Nafithromycin, and successful gene therapy trials for haemophilia. He encouraged UCMS and similar institutions to collaborate with the private sector for advanced research and clinical trials, noting that the “age of working in silos is over.”

Reflecting on emerging health challenges, Singh highlighted the “bi-phasic disease spectrum” of communicable and non-communicable diseases, alongside the ageing population. He stressed the role of artificial intelligence in diagnostics and patient care, describing AI as a hybrid tool that combines empathy with innovation.

The event also featured a souvenir marking UCMS’s 54-year journey, showcasing its contributions to medical education and community health initiatives in partnership with GTB Hospital. Awards and medals were presented to outstanding students and faculty, with Singh urging graduates to shape India’s healthcare future as the nation approaches its centenary of independence in 2047.

Prof. Mahesh Verma, Chairman, Governing Body, UCMS, and Prof. Balaram Pani, Dean of Colleges, University of Delhi, were among the dignitaries present at the ceremony.