Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai declared that the government is committed to realizing the vision of a developed Chhattisgarh, prioritizing the health of its 3 crore citizens. He highlighted the strengthening of the state’s healthcare infrastructure over the past 20 months, ensuring health services reach even the most remote areas. Sai was speaking at the inauguration of the three-day Dental Conference 2025 held at a private hotel in Raipur. During the event, he observed an exhibition of dental equipment and released the annual souvenir of the Dental Association. The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to healthcare from day one, highlighting the approval of five new medical colleges and the establishment of institutions for physiotherapy, nursing, and mother-child care. He stressed that the goal is a healthy and progressive Chhattisgarh. He also mentioned the expansion of health services, noting an increase from one medical college in 2000 to 15 currently. The Ayushman Bharat Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana are providing free treatment to patients and the elderly, while affordable generic medicines are benefiting the general public. Addressing the rise in oral cancer cases due to tobacco consumption, the Chief Minister underscored the crucial role of dentists in promoting oral health and encouraging the public to adopt healthy habits. He also shared memories of his parliamentary tenure, recalling his efforts to establish an AIIMS in Chhattisgarh back in 1999. He mentioned that the state government has prepared the ‘Chhattisgarh Vision 2047’ document and set a goal of 10 missions to advance the state. The goal is to increase the state’s GSDP to 75 lakh crore by 2047. He reiterated the richness of Chhattisgarh in mineral and forest resources and the hard work of its farmers and people. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of dentists in safeguarding smiles, highlighting the upcoming conference as a platform for in-depth discussions on oral health issues and treatment advancements. The recent harmonization of GST slabs to 5% and 18% was also mentioned as a positive step for trade and agriculture.
