The Indian Government is actively expanding its digital health infrastructure under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission while strengthening primary healthcare services through a network of Health and Wellness Centres, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare and Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav said on March 9, 2026. Addressing an event at the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare (NIHFW) in New Delhi, the minister outlined ongoing efforts to enhance immunisation coverage by introducing new vaccines and improving the effectiveness of disease surveillance systems nationwide.
Jadhav emphasized the critical role of robust public health institutions in achieving these goals, crediting NIHFW for its contributions to training skilled health professionals and supporting the implementation of various national health programmes. The minister's remarks highlighted the government's multi-pronged approach to modernising healthcare delivery, combining digital tools for better data management and service access with grassroots-level strengthening of preventive and primary care facilities.
Dr Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, commended NIHFW for its sustained efforts in public health research, capacity building, and policy advisory support for the government. She noted that the institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of India's health workforce and ensuring the smooth execution of flagship national health initiatives aimed at improving population health outcomes.
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During his address, NIHFW Director Dr Sunil Vilasrao Gitte presented the institute's key achievements over the past year, including progress in public health training programmes, research projects, and strategic collaborations designed to bolster the country's overall health system resilience. The event also served as a platform to release the institute's annual publications—"Dharna", the HPPI Journal, and “Prospects of Placement Cell”—which showcase academic and research advancements in the field.
The Annual Day celebration featured the presentation of awards to outstanding employees, students, and sports achievers in recognition of their dedication and excellence. Cultural performances by students added to the occasion, reflecting the vibrant and engaged academic environment at NIHFW. Prof. V.K. Tiwari, Dean of the institute, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, guests, and participants.
The event reaffirmed NIHFW's longstanding commitment to advancing public health education, research, and evidence-based policy support, with the broader objective of improving healthcare accessibility, quality, and equity across India. As the government continues to integrate digital solutions and expand immunisation and surveillance capabilities, institutions like NIHFW play a pivotal role in building a skilled and responsive health workforce to meet evolving public health challenges.
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