Bhopal: Reaffirming that healthcare remains one of the Madhya Pradesh government’s foremost priorities, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Saturday launched the Pulse Polio Campaign and the Suman Panchayat Programme, while unveiling the State Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) 2.0 Policy. Speaking at the RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration and Management in Bhopal, the Chief Minister praised doctors and healthcare workers, saying they are “like God after parents” because of their selfless service during times of illness and crisis.
The event also witnessed the felicitation of districts that performed exceptionally well in the HPV Vaccination Campaign and the Swasth Yakrit Mission (Healthy Liver Mission).
‘Doctors Are Like God After Parents’
Addressing doctors, healthcare workers and officials, Dr. Mohan Yadav said people may not have seen God, but they witness doctors saving lives during their most difficult moments.
“There is a saying that while we haven’t seen God, when we see doctors treating us during times of suffering and helping us recover, we feel that—after our parents—they are the God standing right before us,” the Chief Minister said.
He appreciated the medical fraternity for its outstanding contribution to society and said the government’s confidence in the healthcare system has grown because of their dedication.
He added that the state government made healthcare a priority immediately after assuming office and even undertook difficult administrative reforms, including merging two ministries, to improve health governance.
Health Sector Reforms a Government Priority
Dr. Mohan Yadav said his government has consistently focused on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and public health services.
He described the launch of the State Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) 2.0 Policy as a landmark initiative aimed at combating growing resistance to antibiotics and infectious diseases.
According to the Chief Minister, health security is now an integral part of national security.
He said protecting citizens from diseases originating beyond national borders is as important as safeguarding the country’s territorial boundaries.
PM Modi’s Leadership During COVID-19 Praised
The Chief Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for India’s successful response during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recalling the nationwide lockdown, Dr. Yadav admitted that he initially had apprehensions when the Prime Minister announced the unprecedented measure.
However, he said the country’s response under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership demonstrated India’s resilience and collective strength.
“The world witnessed how India not only fought COVID-19 successfully but emerged stronger,” he said.
Dr. Yadav added that the State Antimicrobial Resistance Policy reflects Prime Minister Modi’s broader vision of strengthening India’s healthcare preparedness against future health challenges.
‘Sarve Santu Niramaya’ Reflects India’s Health Vision
The Chief Minister said India’s ancient philosophy of “Sarve Santu Niramaya” (May all be free from illness)continues to guide the government’s public health initiatives.
He noted that this vision aligns with the principles of Antyodaya, good governance and inclusive development, benefiting youth, women, farmers and economically weaker sections.
He urged citizens to become more health-conscious and actively participate in preventive healthcare initiatives.
Large-Scale Pulse Polio Campaign Across Madhya Pradesh
Highlighting the scale of the Pulse Polio Campaign, Dr. Mohan Yadav announced that the state has launched one of its biggest immunisation drives.
The campaign includes:
- 1,400 special mobile teams
- 43,000 door-to-door vaccination teams
- 1.66 lakh vaccinators
- 26,000 supervisors
- 83,000 polio booths across Madhya Pradesh
The Chief Minister extended his best wishes to all healthcare workers, volunteers and officials involved in ensuring that every eligible child receives the polio vaccine.
Ayushman Bharat Has Protected Over 60 Crore Citizens
Praising the Central Government’s healthcare initiatives, Dr. Mohan Yadav said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has provided a protective shield to more than 60 crore citizens through the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme.
He noted that India, which once saw many citizens travelling abroad for treatment, has now emerged as a global destination for affordable healthcare.
According to the Chief Minister, India’s healthcare transformation has been driven by improved accessibility, affordability and expansion of medical services.
12 Years of PM Modi’s Governance a ‘Boon’
The Chief Minister described Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 12 years in office as a major blessing for the country.
He highlighted several flagship schemes that have significantly strengthened India’s healthcare ecosystem, including:
- Ayushman Bharat Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana
- TB-Free India Campaign
- Swasth Yakrit (Healthy Liver) Mission
- National Sickle Cell Eradication Mission
He said these initiatives have improved healthcare access for millions of people across the country.
96% Target Achieved in HPV Vaccination Campaign
Dr. Mohan Yadav congratulated the Health Department for achieving 96 percent of the HPV vaccination target within just two months, describing it as a remarkable accomplishment.
He said the vaccination campaign represents a significant step towards protecting girls from life-threatening diseases such as cervical cancer.
The Chief Minister also honoured districts that delivered outstanding performance in the HPV vaccination campaign and the Healthy Liver Mission.
Healthcare Workers Deserve Highest Respect
Concluding his address, Dr. Mohan Yadav once again paid tribute to doctors and healthcare professionals.
“We may not have seen God in person, but in times of crisis and suffering, doctors and healthcare professionals are the first to stand up for our protection. Therefore, they are akin to God to us. Their service, dedication, and humanity are truly unparalleled and worthy of reverence,” he said.
The event reaffirmed the Madhya Pradesh government’s commitment to strengthening preventive healthcare, disease control, immunisation, and public health infrastructure while recognising the invaluable role of healthcare professionals.
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