Lucknow, April 10: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that in the face of rapidly changing lifestyles and the rising threat of non-communicable diseases, health policy must now focus on both prevention and treatment. He stated that to ensure long-term health and productivity for the nation, the healthcare system must evolve from a treatment-centric model to one that prioritizes public awareness and lifestyle improvements.
Speaking at the ‘NIC-2026’ conference organized by the Cardiological Society of India at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University, CM Yogi highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding health infrastructure and affordable treatment. He stressed that prioritizing preventive strategies is crucial for safeguarding society against diseases. This dual approach—strong treatment systems coupled with extensive preventive campaigns—will form the foundation of India’s future health security and pave the way for a ‘developed India.’
He pointed out that non-communicable diseases have become a significant concern for society, while India’s tradition of balanced diets and regular routines has always been the cornerstone of healthy living. The challenges posed by changing lifestyles have made it clear that both prevention and treatment are essential. While experts naturally focus on treatment and innovation, they must prioritize prevention to effectively combat these diseases. Awareness campaigns encouraging healthy lifestyles are vital to better face future health challenges.
The Chief Minister expressed concern over the rapid increase in non-communicable diseases affecting a large segment of society. Previously, severe illnesses often led to financial crises for families due to a lack of adequate health institutions and specialists. However, significant changes have occurred in recent years. Through the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, approximately 550 to 600 million people now receive health coverage of up to 500,000 rupees annually, making it one of the world’s largest health coverage schemes and alleviating treatment-related worries for many.
He noted that in 2025, around 14 billion rupees were allocated for public treatment through the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, showcasing the government’s sensitivity to health issues. The Ayushman Bharat scheme has also included previously excluded groups under the Chief Minister’s Jan Arogya Yojana, expanding the reach of health security. Recently, teachers, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, ANMs, and mid-day meal cooks have also been covered, benefiting a large section of society.
CM Yogi mentioned that a decade ago, Uttar Pradesh had only 17 government medical colleges, which was grossly inadequate for its population of 250 million. Today, with joint efforts from the central and state governments, this number has increased to 81, along with two AIIMS institutions. Establishing ICUs in every district, launching cath labs in various locations, and rapidly expanding private super-specialty hospitals are strengthening health services. Tele-consultation, tele-ICU, and virtual ICU services have been integrated across hospitals in the state through SGPGI, KGMU, and Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Medical Institute. Additionally, affordable and quality treatment is being developed through medical device parks and pharma parks.
Despite these efforts, the Chief Minister warned that without improving lifestyles and implementing widespread awareness campaigns, controlling the rising tide of diseases through treatment alone will not be feasible. He noted that while conditions for private sector doctors are relatively manageable, overcrowding in government institutions has become a serious challenge. For instance, KGMU sees 12,000 to 14,000 OPD patients daily, AIIMS Delhi sees 16,000 to 17,000, and SGPGI sees 10,000 to 12,000, making it difficult to provide each patient with adequate time and quality treatment. This pressure is expected to increase in the future.
He highlighted that the changing lifestyle, particularly the excessive use of smartphones for 4 to 6 hours daily, has led to new health issues, with the rapid rise of diabetes posing a significant challenge. In this context, government efforts alone are insufficient; widespread public awareness is crucial. The Chief Minister stated that when this message is conveyed through doctors, its impact is deeper and more lasting, making their role in this campaign vital. He pointed out that today’s biggest challenge is the changing lifestyle and increasing adulteration in food. In the past, people maintained regular sleep and balanced diets, but the situation has drastically changed.
Referring to a campaign conducted before Diwali, he mentioned that thousands of kilograms of adulterated khoya and paneer were seized during raids, raising serious questions about food purity in the market. Today, the quality of food served at any event cannot be guaranteed. Amidst these challenges, the Prime Minister’s efforts to promote traditional medical practices and yoga globally are commendable, exemplified by the celebration of ‘International Yoga Day’ on June 21.
The Chief Minister urged doctors and specialists to encourage the community to adopt disciplined routines, reduce excessive smartphone use, and embrace healthier lifestyles, as public awareness is essential for tackling these health challenges effectively.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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