Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai articulated the vision of a prosperous Chhattisgarh, emphasizing the health and well-being of the state’s 30 million citizens. The government has focused on bolstering healthcare infrastructure and extending medical services to remote regions over the last two years.
Speaking at the three-day Dental Conference 2025 in Raipur, Chief Minister Sai initiated the event and observed an exhibition of dental care equipment. He also released the annual souvenir of the Dental Association.
Sai highlighted the government’s dedication to public health from the outset, including the approval of five new medical colleges and the establishment of institutions for physiotherapy, nursing, and mother-child healthcare. He expressed the importance of a healthy Chhattisgarh as a foundation for progress.
He highlighted the significant growth in healthcare, with the establishment of 15 medical colleges compared to one in 2000. The Ayushman Bharat scheme and the Prime Minister’s Vaya Vandana Yojana provide free treatment to patients, particularly the elderly, while affordable generic medicines are providing relief.
The Chief Minister addressed the rise in oral cancer cases linked to the consumption of harmful substances, and acknowledged the crucial role of dentists in dental health and in promoting a healthy smile. He urged the medical community to launch widespread public awareness campaigns.
Sharing memories of his time in parliament, he recalled his efforts to secure an AIIMS for Chhattisgarh during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure as Prime Minister. His request was ultimately granted.
He noted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India by 2047. The Chhattisgarh government has created the ‘Chhattisgarh Vision 2047’ document and set goals to advance the state through 10 missions.
Sai projected the state’s GSDP, currently at ₹5 lakh crore, to reach ₹75 lakh crore by 2047. He recognized the state’s wealth of mineral and forest resources, and the hard work of its farmers and citizens. He expressed confidence in achieving these goals.
Discussing GST reforms, the Chief Minister highlighted the benefits of standardizing GST slabs for trade and agriculture, viewing it as an example of the Prime Minister’s economic foresight.
In closing, Sai emphasized the importance of a human smile and the critical role of dentists in preserving oral health. He anticipated that the conference would promote deeper understanding of oral diseases and treatment options.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal remarked on the Chief Minister’s ongoing oversight of health services and the commitment to quality care in underserved areas. He cited the appointment of 20 specialist doctors in Bastar and the NQAS certification for the health center in Sukma district as examples of progress.
With the new medical colleges, the state will have 15 in total. Additionally, a super-specialty hospital in Bilaspur, 12 nursing colleges, and five physiotherapy colleges are being established. Mobile medical units and bike ambulances are being launched to serve special backward tribal communities. Chhattisgarh leads the nation in providing cashless treatment.
The conference was attended by Dr. Arvind Kumar, President of the Indian Dental Association Chhattisgarh, former President Dr. Rajiv Singh, Conference Chairman Dr. Vaibhav Tiwari, along with many dentists from across the country.
