19-03-2026:Address by the Hon’ble Governor of Uttarakhand at the Second Himalayan Healthcare Innovation Summit

Jai Hind!

In the lap of the Himalayas—where the grandeur of nature, the peace of spirituality, and the compassion of humanity are felt together—it gives me immense pleasure and pride to welcome you all to Devbhoomi Uttarakhand on the occasion of the “Second Himalayan Healthcare Innovation Summit,” a visionary gathering.

This summit is not merely a platform for discussion, but a shared commitment. It symbolizes our belief that through the integration of technology, innovation, and human sensitivity, the challenges of the Himalayan region can be transformed into opportunities. Today, our objective is not just to discuss healthcare, but to realize the dream of a “Healthy Himalaya,” which forms the foundation of national security and prosperity.

The Himalayas are not just a range of mountains; they are an eternal symbol of patience, resilience, and continuity of life. The villages, valleys, and border areas nestled within these महान ranges remind us that the true meaning of service emerges when we strive to reach people even in the most difficult conditions.

However, it is equally true that delivering healthcare services in Himalayan regions is extremely challenging. Difficult terrain, limited transportation, unpredictable weather, and a shortage of specialist doctors—all these factors make healthcare delivery in these areas complex. Natural disasters often intensify these challenges.

Despite this, our doctors, nurses, ASHA workers, ANMs, and other healthcare personnel serve with extraordinary dedication. Many of them traverse difficult mountain paths to reach remote villages, often saving lives with limited resources. Their spirit of service is truly commendable. I bow to all such healthcare warriors from this stage.

Friends,

When we talk about healthcare systems in the Himalayan region, it is not the concern of just one state. Whether it is Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Sikkim, or the northeastern states—these regions share similar geographical challenges.

Therefore, the need of the hour is to address these challenges through a collective approach. With this spirit, I would like to present the concept of a “Himalayan Health Compact.”

This will not merely be a formal agreement, but a dynamic platform for cooperation, coordination, and shared commitment among Himalayan states. It will enable the exchange of experiences, successful models, and innovations. A successful initiative in one state can inspire another. This exchange of knowledge will strengthen the healthcare system across the entire Himalayan region.

Friends,

The promises we made at last year’s summit were not just administrative directives, but a response to the trust of those mothers who had to walk miles for treatment. I had then said that women’s health and safe motherhood in Uttarakhand are not just policy goals, but a necessity of good governance.

Today, in 2026, I am proud that we have moved beyond words and left concrete footprints of modern healthcare in the difficult terrains of the mountains. We have proven that with firm resolve, no obstacle can block the path of service. The progress of the past year confirms that we are moving in the right direction with encouraging momentum.

On this path of innovation, we are guided by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Antyodaya, which forms the core of our healthcare policies. The Ayushman Bharat scheme has transformed India’s healthcare landscape. For thousands of poor families in Uttarakhand, it has been nothing short of a blessing. Where earlier a serious illness could devastate a family financially, today the “Golden Card” represents dignity, security, and new hope.

Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the “Digital India” initiative has begun to bear fruit in healthcare through ABHA IDs and digital health records. Jan Aushadhi centers have made medicines affordable for the middle class, enhancing ease of living. From border villages like Mana to the heights of Ladakh, we are committed to connecting every region with modern healthcare facilities.

Friends,

To strengthen healthcare systems in Himalayan regions, we must focus on some key pillars:

First, strengthening primary and preventive healthcare.
Second, promoting technology-driven healthcare innovation.
Third, empowering and honoring healthcare workers.

In mountainous regions, reaching district hospitals often takes considerable time. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that village-level facilities provide basic diagnosis, consultation, and treatment.

Health and Wellness Centres can play a crucial role in this direction. When integrated with telemedicine, digital diagnostic tools, and trained personnel, they can become the backbone of rural healthcare.

The second pillar is technology-based innovation. With rapid advancements in science and technology, tools like artificial intelligence, telemedicine, mobile diagnostic units, and digital health platforms can expand healthcare access to remote areas.

However, we must ensure that these technologies are not limited to metropolitan cities. Their true purpose is fulfilled only when they reach the last village in the mountains and improve the lives of those living there.

I urge health-tech companies and innovators present here to design solutions tailored to the unique needs of Himalayan regions—solutions that function even with low electricity, limited internet connectivity, and harsh weather conditions.

The third pillar is the empowerment and recognition of healthcare workers. Serving in mountainous regions is extremely challenging. Therefore, it is essential to provide doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers with adequate resources, training, and incentives.

Digital training programs, career advancement opportunities, and better working conditions can significantly boost their morale. When they feel valued, they will serve with even greater dedication.

Friends,

In the mountains, a woman’s health is the backbone of the entire family. When a woman falls ill, the whole household is affected. If we truly aim to achieve a developed India by 2047, we must prioritize maternal health. Anemia-free Uttarakhand and safe institutional deliveries should not just be government statistics—they should reflect our societal values.

I am pleased to learn that SETU Commission, AIIMS Rishikesh, and Tata Trusts are working together on an important initiative to strengthen maternal and child health. Initiatives like Tele-NICU can provide timely specialized care to newborns in remote areas. At the same time, we must promote community-level screening programs for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

I would also like to appreciate the role of the SETU Commission. Under the leadership of Vice Chairman Raj Shekhar Joshi, the Commission has acted as a bridge between government and the private sector. Innovation succeeds only when supported by the right policy framework.

I would further expect the Commission to develop innovative healthcare models for Himalayan regions, including decentralized diagnostic services in high-altitude areas, digital screening for non-communicable diseases, and a strong digital chain for maternal healthcare from villages to district hospitals.

Such initiatives will not only improve the quality of healthcare but also make the system more inclusive and effective.

Friends,

The Himalayas are among the youngest mountain ranges in the world, constantly evolving and adapting. Our healthcare system must also be dynamic, innovative, and responsive to societal needs.

The “Second Himalayan Healthcare Innovation Summit” symbolizes this transformative thinking. I am confident that the discussions, exchange of experiences, and new partnerships formed here will provide a new direction to healthcare systems in Himalayan regions.

We must also integrate Ayurveda and traditional Himalayan knowledge with modern science. The idea of “Healing Himalaya” can attract global attention. With pure air, clean water, and rare medicinal herbs, Himalayan states like Uttarakhand can emerge as global wellness hubs when combined with modern technology.

In conclusion, the Himalayas inspire us not only to reach great heights but also to serve with courage and determination. If our vision is broad, our technology is people-centric, and our hearts are filled with a spirit of service, no distance can hinder our efforts.

Let us make this summit not just a platform for dialogue, but the beginning of tangible change and positive outcomes. With the blessings of Devbhoomi, the strength of the Himalayas, and our commitment to service, we will move forward towards building a healthy, prosperous, and empowered Himalayan region.

Healthy Himalaya – Prosperous Himalaya – Empowered India.

With these best wishes, I conclude my address.

Vande Mataram! Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Jai Hind!