23-12-2025 : Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the Theme “Effective Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Health Sector”

Jai Hind!

It gives me immense pleasure and deep satisfaction to be present among you today and to share my thoughts from this मंच on an extremely important and far-sighted topic related to the future of healthcare.

The subject we are deliberating upon today—“Effective Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Health Sector”—is not merely a technical concept. It is a subject deeply connected with the quality of human life, the direction of medical science, and the overall development of the nation. Organizing a comprehensive discussion on this theme is truly a commendable initiative.

Artificial Intelligence, commonly known as AI, has emerged as one of the most influential technological revolutions of the 21st century. This technology is not just a means of making machines intelligent; rather, it is a powerful tool for extending human capabilities. The entry of AI into a sensitive and life-dependent field such as healthcare marks the beginning of a new era in the history of medical science.

In India’s ancient tradition, knowledge, science, and compassion have always been considered complementary to one another. The fundamental philosophy of Ayurveda also conveys this very idea—
“Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam, Aturasya Vikara Prashamanam.”
This defines the two primary objectives of Ayurveda: first, to prevent disease, and second, to treat illness when it occurs.

Today, AI stands before us as a modern manifestation of this Indian philosophy, where the purpose of technology is not merely efficiency, but human welfare. When we view AI through the lens of Indian culture and values, it transforms into “science for humanity.”

The most significant contribution of AI in the health sector has been in accurate diagnosis and early detection. Today, AI-based medical imaging, radiology, pathology, and cardiology are enabling disease detection that is far more precise and faster than ever before.

Early identification of cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders, and rare diseases plays a decisive role in saving patients’ lives. AI algorithms analyze vast volumes of health data and identify patterns that are often difficult to detect through human observation or experience alone.

Another important dimension of AI is personalized medicine. Every individual has a unique genetic makeup, lifestyle, environment, and medical history. AI can analyze all these factors and design patient-specific treatment plans. This not only increases the success rate of treatment but also reduces unnecessary medication, side effects, and time. It takes healthcare beyond the concept of “One Size Fits All” and moves it toward “One Patient, One Solution.”

AI is also bringing revolutionary change in the field of drug discovery and development. Traditionally, developing a new drug requires years of time and enormous cost. AI-based models can identify potential drug molecules and predict their effects and side effects in a much shorter time. This not only accelerates the drug development process but also makes it more cost-effective and efficient. In times of pandemics, such capability can prove to be a boon for humanity.

In a vast and diverse country like India, where equitable access to healthcare has long been a challenge, AI-based telemedicine and digital health platforms have emerged as powerful solutions. Citizens living in remote and rural areas can now consult specialist doctors through digital means. AI-enabled chatbots, virtual health assistants, and remote monitoring systems are strengthening primary healthcare services.

For a geographically challenging, mountainous state like Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, the importance of AI becomes even greater. Many villages in our state are still located in remote and difficult terrains, where regular availability of specialist doctors is challenging. In such circumstances, initiatives like AI-based mobile health units, drone-enabled medical supply delivery, remote diagnostic tools, and tele-ICU facilities can transform healthcare delivery. This technology not only reduces distance but also ensures timely treatment, thereby saving lives.

However, it is equally essential that we do not view AI merely as a technological marvel. We must also seriously consider its ethical, social, and human dimensions. Patient data privacy, cyber security, algorithmic transparency, and human sensitivity in decision-making are issues on which no compromise can be made. AI should not replace human judgment; rather, it should strengthen it.

I would like to state clearly that AI is not a substitute for doctors and healthcare workers. It is a complement to their knowledge, experience, and compassion. Human–machine collaboration will be the foundation of the future healthcare system, where machines assist in analysis and prediction, while final decisions are guided by human wisdom, ethics, and empathy.

AI also plays a crucial role in healthcare management and administrative efficiency. Better allocation of hospital resources, reduction in patient waiting times, swift management of emergency services, and optimization of supply chains are all becoming possible through AI. This not only reduces costs but also improves the quality of services.

Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India’s health sector is undergoing a historic transformation. Through the Ayushman Bharat scheme, millions of citizens have gained the right to health security, while the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission has created a future-ready healthcare ecosystem through Digital Health IDs, electronic health records, and integrated health data.

Telemedicine services such as e-Sanjeevani have proven that quality healthcare can be delivered to the last person through technology. All these efforts reflect the Prime Minister’s vision of making healthcare accessible, affordable, and reliable.

Through initiatives like Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has given new direction to the effective use of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Continuous encouragement is being provided to AI-based disease prediction, digital diagnostics, health-tech solutions developed by startups, and research-driven innovations.

At the national level, the integration of AI and healthcare is enabling India to move beyond a purely treatment-based system toward prevention, precise diagnosis, and holistic well-being. It is evident that under the Prime Minister’s leadership, AI is emerging as a powerful instrument in the service of humanity, and India is steadily advancing toward global leadership in healthcare.

India possesses immense potential in the fields of research and innovation. What is needed is strong collaboration among the government, educational institutions, research centers, and the private sector. Policy support, investment, and skill development must be given special emphasis to promote AI-based healthcare innovations. States like Uttarakhand, with rich traditions in education, research, and AYUSH, can play a leading role in this direction.

In conclusion, I call upon all healthcare providers, technology experts, researchers, policymakers, and youth to collectively build AI as the foundation of a human-centric, ethical, and inclusive healthcare system. Technology becomes truly meaningful only when it delivers hope, security, and health to the last person.

Let us all work together to ensure that artificial intelligence in healthcare does not remain merely a promise of the future, but becomes a powerful reality of the present—improving the lives of every citizen.
Jai Hind!