PM Modi inaugurates RJ Shankara Eye Hospital in Kashi

Varanasi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, said that only a healthy and capable young generation can help achieve the goal of a developed India. He added that he has the blessings of Shankaracharya for this mission and believes it will succeed with the grace of Baba Vishwanath.

The Prime Minister inaugurated the RJ Shankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi. During this, he congratulated the people of Kashi and the entire Purvanchal on receiving the gift of this modern hospital. He described it as a confluence of modernity and spirituality for Kashi and said, “This hospital established in the city of Lord Shankar will provide better eye care services to the elderly, children and the poor.”

The Prime Minister stated that today is a special day for Kashi, as the opening of a modern eye hospital will enhance health services for Purvanchal. He emphasized that this hospital will not only advance the field of ophthalmology but will also create job opportunities. Medical college students will have a chance to gain practical experience here, and support staff positions will be available as well.

He remarked, “Kashi has always been a center of religion and culture, and now it is becoming a leader in health services. Kashi is emerging as a major healthcare hub in Uttar Pradesh.”

In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the blessings of Shankaracharya ji, expressing satisfaction in completing many projects under his guidance. He referred to the new hospital as a significant gift for the people of his parliamentary constituency.

He mentioned how he has valued the support and affection of Shankaracharyas throughout his life and felt honored to welcome Jagadguru Shankaracharya to Kashi as a public representative.

PM Modi also remembered his friend and business tycoon Rakesh Jhunjhunwala during the event. He said, “Jhunjhunwala ji had a unique identity in the business world, but he was also deeply involved in social work. His legacy continues through his family, and this hospital is a testament to that.”

The Prime Minister praised Jhunjhunwala’s contributions to society, stating that his efforts will serve as an inspiration for many.

He expressed his satisfaction with the improvements in health facilities in Purvanchal over the past decade. He stated, “Ten years ago, there were no block-level treatment options for serious diseases like brain fever in Purvanchal. Today, over 100 centers are operational for treating these conditions.”

He also mentioned that more than 10,000 beds have been added to primary and community health centers. Additionally, over 5,500 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established in villages, and more than 20 dialysis units are now in operation.

The Prime Minister stated that his government has completely transformed the traditional mindset and approach towards health services. He identified five key pillars of India’s new health policy: prevention before the disease, timely diagnosis of diseases, affordable and free treatment and medications, access to quality treatment and doctors in small towns, advancement of technology.

He emphasized that protecting individuals from illness is the government’s top priority, as sickness can push the poor further into poverty. “Over the last decade, 25 crore people have risen out of poverty, but a serious illness can reverse this progress. Therefore, the government is focusing on nutritious food and vaccination”, he stated.

Prime Minister Modi also mentioned that ten years ago, millions of children were missing vaccinations. To address this, he launched Mission Indradhanush, which significantly improved vaccination rates. He noted that this initiative proved especially beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Prime Minister emphasized that timely detection of diseases is as crucial as treatment itself. To achieve this, a nationwide network of Arogya Dham Mandirs, Critical Care Blocks, and modern laboratories is being established. Additionally, the government is making home consultation services available through the Digital Health ID and the e-Sanjeevani App.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the expansion of large hospitals in small towns, stating that thousands of new medical seats have been added in the past five years, with a goal of adding 75,000 more in the next five years. Efforts are also underway to integrate drone technology into health services. He expressed hope that hospitals similar to Shankara Netralaya will be established in Bihar, allowing the hardworking people there to benefit from improved health services.

After receiving blessings from Shankaracharya Jagadguru Swami Vijayendra Saraswati of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetha at the inauguration ceremony, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandi Ben Patel, Dr. SB Balasubramaniam, Rekha Jhunjhunwala, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.