Rajnath Singh Inaugurates Advanced Medical Centers for Armed Forces in Delhi
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday laid the foundation stones for state-of-the-art medical facilities at two key military hospitals in Delhi, marking a significant boost to healthcare infrastructure for the armed forces. The ceremony took place during the 262nd Army Medical Corps Raising Day celebrations, where Singh emphasized the critical role of medical services in national security.
New Medical Centers at Army Hospital (Research & Referral)
The Defence Minister inaugurated specialized centers for ophthalmology, oncology, and joint replacement at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral). These advanced facilities are designed to significantly enhance the tertiary care capabilities of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS). Specifically, they will provide cutting-edge treatment in areas such as advanced eye care, comprehensive cancer treatment, and complex joint replacement surgeries, ensuring that military personnel receive world-class medical attention.
Infrastructure Expansion at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment
In addition to the specialized centers, Rajnath Singh laid the foundation for new infrastructure at the Base Hospital in Delhi Cantonment. This expansion project aims to create a capacity of 998 beds, along with an additional 100 crisis expansion beds. The development is intended to address both routine and emergency healthcare requirements of defence forces personnel, providing robust support during peacetime and operational scenarios.
Rajnath Singh's Address on Military Medical Services
Speaking at the event, Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of military medical services as a testament to India's soft power, both within the country and in neighbouring nations. He stated, "Military medical services within the country and neighbouring nations have emerged as a powerful testament to India’s soft power." He encouraged the Army Medical Corps to focus on innovation, capacity-building, and the integration of advanced technology to meet emerging challenges in military medicine.
Singh further elaborated on the broader concept of security, noting, "In today's world, security isn't just about protecting borders; health security is equally important. Strong medical support plays a crucial role in the success of major operations like Operation Sindoor. When soldiers are sure that they will have access to quality medical facilities under all circumstances, they can confidently complete their missions."
Enhancing Healthcare for Defence Personnel
The new facilities are expected to revolutionize healthcare for armed forces members by providing specialized and advanced medical treatments. The ophthalmology center will focus on eye care, the oncology center on cancer treatment, and the joint replacement center on orthopedic surgeries. Meanwhile, the expanded infrastructure at Base Hospital will ensure adequate bed capacity and emergency readiness, supporting the health and well-being of defence personnel across various scenarios.
This initiative underscores the government's commitment to strengthening the medical backbone of the military, ensuring that soldiers have access to top-notch healthcare services. By investing in these advanced centers and infrastructure, India aims to bolster its defence capabilities through enhanced health security, aligning with global standards in military medicine.
