Health Minister U.T. Khader announced in Ballari on Sunday that the state government is committed to providing timely and quality healthcare services to its citizens through significant departmental reforms. Speaking at a press conference, he stated that the primary objective is to strengthen the public health system to ensure free and high-quality treatment for every member of society, regardless of their background.
Khader detailed the establishment of a robust network of 800 ambulances, which will be fully operational by the end of December. This network comprises the existing 450 ambulances and 350 new units approved for purchase by the Chief Minister and the Finance Department. The system aims to transport patients from villages to Primary Health Centres and subsequently to Taluk hospitals within 20 to 25 minutes. Strict penalties of ₹3,000 will be imposed on the management agency for any delays, with the agency retaining full responsibility for vehicle cleanliness, drivers, and overall maintenance.
Regarding human resources, the minister noted that over 200 doctors have already joined various Primary Health Centres across the state following direct recruitment. Additionally, laboratory technicians and pharmacists are being hired on a contract basis to meet the specific demands of each district. A 100-day plan has been initiated to upgrade Taluk hospitals by appointing specialist doctors and installing a minimum of five ICU beds in each facility. This measure is designed to provide adequate treatment at the taluk level, thereby reducing the burden on district hospitals and preventing patients from traveling for general emergency cases.
Khader also announced the implementation of the country’s first ‘ಮಹಿಳಾ ಆರೋಗ್ಯ ನೀತಿ’ (Women’s Health Policy). The state will create a separate department and appoint a dedicated Deputy Director to provide disease prevention and treatment services to women from birth through old age. In the presence of Mayor P. Gadeppa and District Congress President Allan Prashant, the minister addressed food safety concerns, stating that raids on hotels and bakeries by food safety officers have enhanced the state’s reputation. Inspections have covered establishments ranging from small eateries to five-star hotels, and a KFC outlet in Mangaluru was shut down based on a complaint filed by a citizen via a QR code. The government plans to impose heavy fines and revoke licenses for food adulteration or the use of substandard materials, with the potential formation of a ‘Watchdog Committee’ to oversee food safety.
