Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the three-day Dental Conference 2025 in Raipur, declaring that the health and well-being of Chhattisgarh’s 3 crore citizens is a top priority in the state’s journey towards becoming a developed Chhattisgarh.
Speaking at the inaugural event held at a private hotel in the state capital, CM Sai highlighted the government’s efforts over the past 20 months to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, especially in remote and Naxal-affected regions. He also visited an exhibition showcasing advanced dental equipment and released the annual souvenir of the Indian Dental Association (IDA) Chhattisgarh.
Massive Expansion in Healthcare Infrastructure
CM Sai announced the approval of five new medical colleges, in addition to the 10 already functioning, bringing the total number in the state to 15 medical colleges — a dramatic leap from just one in 2000.
He shared that new institutes such as physiotherapy colleges, mother-and-child hospitals, and nursing colleges are being established across the state. A super-specialty hospital in Bilaspur, 12 new nursing colleges, and 5 physiotherapy institutions are also under development.
Public Healthcare Services and Welfare Schemes
Sai praised the Ayushman Bharat Yojana and PM Vaya Vandana Yojana, which are enabling free and accessible treatment for both patients and the elderly. Additionally, affordable generic medicines are providing substantial relief to the general public.
The CM emphasized the importance of oral health, linking the rise of oral cancer cases to tobacco, gutkha, and pan masala consumption. He urged dental professionals to launch awareness campaigns to promote dental hygiene and prevention.
Recollections and Vision for 2047
In an emotional moment, CM Sai recalled his parliamentary advocacy during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, which led to the establishment of AIIMS Raipur following Chhattisgarh’s formation in 2000.
Reiterating PM Modi’s mission to make India a developed nation by 2047, he announced that Chhattisgarh has prepared its own ‘Vision 2047’ document with 10 focused development missions. The state’s GSDP target is to rise from ₹5 lakh crore currently to ₹75 lakh crore by 2047.
Quoting the popular phrase “Chhattisgarhiya Sabse Badhiyan”, he expressed confidence that the hardworking citizens, rich forest and mineral resources, and committed governance would together realize this ambitious goal.
GST Reforms and Ease of Doing Business
Highlighting economic reforms, Sai said that recent GST slab rationalization (merging 5% and 18% slabs) will benefit both agriculture and businesses, while simplifying trade processes in the state. He credited this reform to PM Modi’s economic foresight.
Support from the Health Department
Health and Family Welfare Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding quality healthcare to the remotest corners of the state. He noted:
- Deployment of 20 specialist doctors in Bastar
- Mobile medical units for tribal and backward regions
- Bike ambulance services for difficult terrains
- Sukma’s Chintagufa Health Centre earning NQAS certification
- Chhattisgarh becoming the top state in India for cashless treatment access
Dental Conference Focus and National Participation
The conference saw the participation of dental professionals from across India. Notable attendees included:
- Dr. Arvind Kumar, President of IDA Chhattisgarh
- Dr. Rajeev Singh, Former President
- Dr. Vaibhav Tiwari, Conference Chairman
CM Sai concluded by saying, “A human’s smile is the most precious thing. Protecting and preserving it is the sacred duty of dental professionals.” He expressed hope that the conference would open new possibilities in the prevention and treatment of oral diseases.
