Says Govt’s focus on rural, tribal areas; Hails over 11 Cr treatments under Ayushman BharatNew Delhi, Jan 28: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said the government is focused on strengthening the public healthcare system and improving health outcomes for all citizens. In her ceremonial address at the commencement of the Budget Session of Parliament, Murmu said, “Health and well-being are a critical pillar of human capital development and national progress. Ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services, particularly for the poor, vulnerable, and underserved sections of society, remains a priority.”The President said over 11 crore hospital treatments have been provided under the Ayushman Bharat Jan Arogya Yojana since its inception. “In the last year alone, around 2.5 crore poor and vulnerable citizens availed free medical treatment under government health schemes,” she added. On healthcare development in the Northeast, Murmu said, “The establishment of the State Cancer Institute in Itanagar, a Medical College in Shivsagar, Assam, a Medical College in Sichey, Sikkim, and a Women and Children’s Hospital in Agartala will greatly support the treatment of millions of families and contribute to a strong and comprehensive health infrastructure in the region.”She highlighted women’s health initiatives, stating, “Under the ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar’ campaign conducted in September, approximately 7 crore women received health check-ups, facilitating timely medical care for women across the country.”The President added, “The World Health Organization has declared India a Trachoma-free country, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s public health journey and reflecting global recognition of India’s sustained efforts to eliminate preventable diseases.”Murmu said the government remains committed to “further strengthening healthcare infrastructure, expanding coverage under flagship health schemes, and continuing citizen-centric reforms aimed at building a resilient, inclusive and future-ready healthcare system for the country.