New Delhi, Nov 11 (NationPress) The introduction of visa-on-arrival facilitation is set to significantly enhance medical travel in India, stated Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday.

For the initiative ‘Heal in India’ to flourish, it is essential to merge modern medical practices with India’s rich heritage of Ayurveda and holistic wellness, elevating the nation’s healthcare standards, he added during his address at the 22nd CII Annual Health Summit.

“India is on the verge of establishing itself as a global leader in quality healthcare. To realize this aspiration, collaboration among all stakeholders is crucial, and the Government is dedicated to advancing the healthcare sector. This commitment is reflected in the doubling of medical colleges over the past decade, with plans for a substantial increase in medical seats over the next five years,” the minister remarked.

Additionally, the government is vigorously working on creating a strong social safety net and ensuring affordable healthcare for everyone.

“Efforts such as offering sanitary pads at minimal prices for underprivileged women highlight our dedication to inclusive health and well-being. We welcome innovative ideas and suggestions that can enhance service delivery and promote advancements within the healthcare ecosystem,” Goyal noted.

He encouraged hospitals to work together in increasing the high-quality nursing workforce by at least 100,000 professionals, which would support both domestic needs and the expanding medical tourism industry.

The minister also emphasized that hospitals should strive to maintain a healthy equilibrium between serving Indian citizens and international patients.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, insisted that India must fully leverage the vast potential of Ayurveda as a fundamental aspect of holistic healthcare. Hospitals are encouraged to actively incorporate Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies into their offerings, aligning traditional practices with contemporary medical methods.

“Worldwide, Ayurveda, together with detoxification, yoga, and holistic wellness programs, has gained popularity among upscale international clients who visit India in search of comprehensive restorative care,” he explained.

Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman of the CII Steering Group on Health and Healthcare Council, stated that India is strategically positioned to emerge as a premier global destination for medical travel.

“Our focus should not only be on attracting medical tourists to India; we must also acknowledge the employment opportunities it will generate and the wider prospects it will create in the healthcare and associated sectors,” added Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals.