Will the Centre Establish Medical Colleges in All ESIC Hospitals with 200 or More Beds?

Synopsis
In a transformative announcement, Union Minister <b>Mansukh Mandaviya</b> revealed plans to create medical colleges in all ESIC hospitals with over 200 beds, significantly enhancing educational prospects for workers’ families. This initiative aims to provide equitable healthcare access while honoring the contributions of labor in India.
Key Takeaways
- Mansukh Mandaviya announced the establishment of medical colleges in ESIC hospitals with 200+ beds.
- 40% of seats will be reserved for the wards of insured persons.
- The new hospital in Kala Amb cost around Rs. 100 crore.
- It aims to benefit over 1 lakh beneficiaries.
- The government prioritizes accessible healthcare for all workers.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) Union Minister of Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Saturday that the government will set up medical colleges in all ESIC (Employee State Insurance Corporation) hospitals featuring 200 or more beds.
During the inauguration of a newly built 30-bedded ESIC Hospital in Kala Amb, Himachal Pradesh, the Union Minister highlighted that 40 percent of seats in these institutions will be allocated for the children of insured individuals.
This initiative aims to provide greater educational opportunities for the families of workers,” he stated.
In a commendable gesture, Mandaviya also recognized the construction workers for their essential contributions in building the hospital, emphasizing the government's dedication to honoring the value of labor.
“This hospital represents more than just a structure; it serves as a tribute to our Shram Shakti, the backbone of our nation. Acknowledging and enhancing this strength is vital for our country's progress,” Mandaviya expressed.
The hospital, designed for potential expansion up to 100 beds, was constructed at a cost of around Rs. 100 crore and marks a significant advancement in delivering quality healthcare under the ESI scheme in the region. It is projected to assist over 1 lakh beneficiaries, providing enhanced infrastructure and access to superior healthcare services.
Highlighting the extension of ESIC services, Mandaviya remarked, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the first Prime Minister who has genuinely honored and valued the labor force of India.”
He assured that ESIC hospitals will cater to all workers, regardless of whether treatment costs Rs 1 or Rs 1 crore.
“Every life holds equal worth, and we will not compromise on the treatment of the underprivileged,” Mandaviya emphasized, reinforcing the government's commitment to accessible healthcare.
“When a proposal for Rs 2 crore worth of essential medicines for the son of an underprivileged insured worker was presented, it was approved without hesitation. Poverty should never hinder access to life-saving treatment.”
He added that the aim is to foster a healthy population, which would subsequently contribute to a healthier society and ultimately a healthier nation.
Reiterating the government’s pledge to worker welfare, Mandaviya committed that all hiring processes will proceed at an accelerated pace, ensuring all vacancies in ESIC hospitals are filled so that workers receive the quality care and services they rightfully deserve.