Dakshina Kannada has potential to become global medical hub: Pralhad Joshi

Moodbidri: Dakshina Kannada has greater potential to become a medical hub for the country and should give greater priority to medical education, research and human resource development, Union Education and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said.

Speaking after inaugurating Alva’s Medical College at the Srimathi Sundari Anand Alva auditorium at Mijaruguttu on Monday, he said India could become a global medical hub by developing medical education, research, hospitals and healthcare services in an integrated manner.

While the world is ageing, India is emerging as a young nation, he said.

India has healthcare workforce potential

There is a shortage of human resources in foreign countries, particularly in the healthcare sector. Indian doctors and nursing staff are providing quality healthcare services, which is a sign of India’s credibility, Joshi said.

India has a sufficient number of medical colleges and young doctors. If they are developed into quality human resources, India can become a global medical hub, he said.

Praise for Alva’s achievements

Joshi praised the contribution of the Alva’s institution to society. He said its work was in line with the vision of earning with 100 hands and giving with 1,000 hands.

He also highlighted the institution’s contribution to education, sports and cultural activities, as well as the free opportunities provided to members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Focus on technology and innovation

India is also making significant progress in the technology sector, Joshi said. The country has strengthened its capabilities in startups, patents and the defence sector.

He said India should become a major centre for technology and innovation in the coming years and stressed the need to give priority to skill-based education.

Educational institutions such as Alva’s should encourage research and innovation along with medical education and help strengthen the country further in the innovation sector, he said.

More than 12 startups participated in the technology exhibition, which he said was an example of the capabilities of young people.

People from across the world are coming to India for treatment after being impressed by the country’s healthcare services, he said, adding that this was a sign of the strength of India’s medical sector.

Alva’s deemed university status soon

Speaking about the proposal submitted by Alva’s institution for deemed university status, Joshi said the required documents and details had been submitted.

He assured that a letter would be issued within a month regarding the proposal. He said Alva’s has educational institutions across different levels and is providing quality education, and that deemed university status would be granted within a month.