In a strong reaffirmation of Haryana’s commitment to healthcare excellence, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday declared that the state government has set an ambitious target to expand MBBS seats beyond 3,400 by the year 2029. Speaking at a National Doctors’ Day event organized by the Derabassi Medical Association in Chandigarh, the Chief Minister highlighted his administration’s ongoing efforts to not only improve medical education but also ensure accessible and quality healthcare services for every citizen of the state.
Tracing the journey from 2014, CM Saini underscored that the number of medical colleges in Haryana has grown from just six to fifteen within a decade, with nine more currently under construction. As a result, the state’s MBBS seat count has surged from 700 to 2,185. By 2029, the government envisions breaching the 3,400 mark, a move that aligns with broader national goals of healthcare transformation and medical self-reliance.
The Chief Minister praised the role of medical professionals in society and recognized their immense contribution, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Calling doctors the true custodians of public health and humanity, he said that their selfless dedication, compassion, and resilience are foundational to building a safe and healthy society. He lauded the Derabassi Medical Association for their service, especially the operation of a free dialysis centre at Chaurasia Hospital for the past two years.
Further elaborating on healthcare reforms, CM Saini stated that the government has taken multiple steps to strengthen the medical ecosystem, including raising postgraduate seats from 289 to 1,043 and introducing 155 PG diploma seats. The government has also hired 3,798 doctors since 2014 and extended their retirement age from 58 to 65 to address shortages and retain experienced professionals.
In a landmark move, the Haryana government is offering free dialysis treatment to kidney patients across government hospitals, medical colleges, and universities. Complementing the central Ayushman Bharat initiative led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Haryana’s Chirayu scheme has enabled over 1.33 crore people from economically weaker sections to access free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh annually. CM Saini emphasized that the aim is to ensure that no poor person in Haryana is deprived of necessary healthcare due to financial constraints.
Recognizing the risks faced by medical professionals, especially during emergencies like pandemics or in hostile environments, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the state’s prioritization of doctor safety. Referring to the theme of this year’s Doctors’ Day—“Caring for those behind the mask”—he highlighted the central government’s provision for stringent penalties against assaults on doctors and healthcare staff, including imprisonment up to five years and fines reaching ₹2 lakh.
The event also witnessed the felicitation of several doctors for their outstanding service to society and the unveiling of the Derabassi Medical Association’s annual magazine by the Chief Minister. Present at the function were Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla of Chandigarh, Dr. Rajiv Gupta, President of Derabassi Medical Association, Secretary Dr. Akash Goswami, and numerous medical professionals and dignitaries.
Haryana’s proactive roadmap, bolstered by infrastructural expansion, skilled human resources, and social health security schemes, reflects a visionary healthcare model that aims to make quality medical care a constitutional reality for all. As the state sets its eyes on educational reform and equitable access, the expanding healthcare footprint underlines the Chief Minister’s strategic push toward a healthier and empowered Haryana.
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