How is PGI-Chandigarh's Youth-Driven Healthcare Project Expanding?
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Synopsis
Project Sarathi, PGIMER's groundbreaking initiative, has expanded its influence across 34 states and Union Territories, redefining patient support and youth participation in healthcare. This innovative approach not only guides patients but also engages young volunteers in meaningful social work.
Key Takeaways
- Project Sarathi enhances patient navigation across 34 states.
- 1,467 hospitals are engaged in the initiative.
- Over 50,000 volunteer hours logged at PGIMER.
- The project promotes social responsibility among youth.
- Collaboration with government ministries underscores its importance.
Chandigarh, June 9 (NationPress) In a remarkable advancement for healthcare facilitation and youth involvement, Project Sarathi, an innovative initiative for hospital navigation and patient support initiated by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), has now broadened its impact to encompass 34 states and Union Territories, as announced by the hospital on Monday.
With strong support from the Union Ministries of Health and Family Welfare and Youth Affairs and Sports, a total of 1,467 hospitals have been approved under the Seva Se Seekhen experiential learning program, available on the MyBharat portal.
Prof Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, shared his excitement regarding the nationwide adoption of the Project Sarathi model, stating: “Initiated with the dual goals of easing hospital navigation for patients and harnessing the enthusiasm of India’s youth for meaningful social contributions, Project Sarathi has developed into a unique model of community involvement.”
“The initiative strives to foster a hospital atmosphere where patients and their families feel directed, supported, and well-informed right from their arrival. Simultaneously, it provides students with a structured avenue to engage in social responsibilities during their formative years, thus cultivating heightened civic awareness and empathy.”
Prof Lal elaborated: “Under the guidance of the Union Health Minister, Project Sarathi was launched as a modest yet assured step towards improving patient facilitation through volunteer engagement, and it has since transformed into a national movement.”
Backed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, along with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, this initiative showcases the government's firm belief in its long-term viability.
With over 50,000 volunteer service hours recorded at PGIMER alone, Project Sarathi is successfully tackling hospital-level challenges while simultaneously fostering a generation of responsible, service-oriented youth.
In a similar vein, Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration) at PGIMER, stated that 1,467 hospitals across 34 states and UTs have been approved under the Seva Se Seekhen program, which is inspired by PGIMER’s Project Sarathi.
Initially launched at PGIMER to cater to the increasing demand for hospital navigators and patient support, Project Sarathi was formally inaugurated on May 5, 2024.
This collaboration between PGIMER and educational institutions aims to train and deploy student volunteers to assist patients in navigating complex hospital settings.
Looking ahead, Project Sarathi is set for further growth with enhanced government and institutional backing.
Point of View
I believe Project Sarathi exemplifies the synergy between healthcare and youth empowerment. This initiative not only addresses pressing hospital navigation challenges but also nurtures a generation of socially responsible citizens, making it a commendable model for future programs across the nation.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Project Sarathi?
Project Sarathi is an innovative initiative by PGIMER aimed at assisting patients in navigating hospital environments while engaging youth volunteers in social service.
How many hospitals are involved in Project Sarathi?
Currently, Project Sarathi has expanded to include 1,467 hospitals across 34 states and Union Territories.
What are the main goals of Project Sarathi?
The main goals are to simplify hospital navigation for patients and to engage youth in meaningful social contributions.
How does Project Sarathi benefit students?
Students volunteering in Project Sarathi gain practical experience and develop a sense of civic responsibility and empathy.
When was Project Sarathi launched?
Project Sarathi was officially inaugurated on May 5, 2024.
