Will make Delhi a hub of medical tourism: Rekha Gupta

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the national capital into a global hub for health tourism, positioning it as a key destination for medical care and wellness.

Addressing the 70th Foundation Day of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Gupta lauded the institution as “a living embodiment of service, dedication, and excellence in healthcare.” Tracing the hospital’s origins to Lahore in 1921 and its re-establishment in Delhi in 1954, she praised its enduring legacy and reputation both in India and abroad.

“This institution has not only served the people with integrity but has also earned immense respect on national and international platforms,” she said.

Taking a sharp dig at the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, Gupta accused it of neglecting the health sector during critical times. “Many lives were lost during the pandemic due to lack of timely treatment. While the government of the time remained inactive, doctors at this hospital stood as a beacon of hope,” she remarked.

Gupta emphasised that her government is committed to providing “timely, accessible, and quality health services” to every resident of the city. “A healthy Delhi is the foundation of a self-reliant India,” she said.

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Backing her vision with numbers, the Chief Minister said that Rs 12,893 crore has been allocated for the health sector in this year’s budget. Of this, Rs 2,144 crore will go towards the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.

Further, she announced plans for extensive infrastructure development, including the construction of 24 new hospitals, the addition of over 16,000 beds, and the establishment of 400 health and wellness centres — to be named Ayushman Arogya Mandirs — across the city.

“We aim to make Delhi a global destination for medical treatment. Promoting health tourism will not only enhance our healthcare services but also contribute significantly to strengthening the city’s economic ecosystem,” Gupta said.

(With inputs from PTI)