Connectivity, Standardisation, and Inclusion Are the Pillars of a Health-First India
Pemmasani Chandrasekhar
, Minister of State for Communications and
Rural Development
, spoke to
Prathiba Raju
, Senior Assistant Editor, ETHealthworld and shared how digital infrastructure—powered by 4G, 5G, BharatNet, and the upcoming 6G vision—is shaping India's
healthcare
future.
A healthcare professional himself, Dr.
Pemmasani
outlines why "connectivity, standardization, and inclusion are the pillars of a Health-First India."
Q. Dr. Pemmasani, as both a healthcare professional and policy leader, how do you see telecom serving as a true catalyst for building a Health-First India through uninterrupted digital connectivity?
Telecom is fundamentally about connectivity, and connectivity is the foundation of modern healthcare. Healthcare is becoming increasingly digital—from physicians accessing real-time clinical data and patient histories to improving coordination, reducing duplication, and minimizing errors. All of this depends on robust, uninterrupted digital infrastructure.
Inclusivity is equally important. For rural or remote patients, even basic access to care can be a challenge. Whether it's teleconsultations or even remote surgeries, high-quality connections—via 5G or fibre optics—are essential. With 65–70% of our population still in rural areas, bridging the digital divide is not optional—it's critical.
Q. The government has made significant progress through initiatives like BharatNet, 4G and 5G rollout. How do you see these efforts translating into equitable healthcare access in rural and remote areas, and what are the next priorities for truly bridging this urban-rural digital health divide?
Today, over 95 per cent of India has 4G coverage, and we're actively working to upgrade the remaining villages. Over 25 crore Indians now have 5G-ready devices. Through BharatNet, we've already connected over 2.15 lakh gram panchayats with optical fibre, and another 40,000 are underway.
To ensure long-term reliability, we've introduced 10-year maintenance contracts and shifted from linear to ring-based network structures—so if one path is disrupted, another route ensures continuity. These measures will drastically reduce service disruptions and increase trust in the system, especially for healthcare delivery.
Q. How will Bharat 6G help revolutionise healthcare as India transforms from a technology adopter to a global standard-setter? Additionally, how is Bharat's 6G Vision attracting global partnerships and driving breakthroughs in terahertz communication and AI-native networks?
6G will deliver speeds 10–15 times faster than today, with near-zero latency, approaching optical fibre-level reliability. That opens immense possibilities—from real-time diagnostics to robotic surgeries and seamless remote care.
Importantly, unlike with 4G and 5G, where we were adopters, India is now shaping global 6G standards. The government has funded over 100 R&D projects—many in partnership with IITs—to develop intellectual property and play a leading role in global tech development.
Q. Platforms like eSanjeevani, ABDM, and Tele-MANAS are transforming public health delivery. How is telecom infrastructure being aligned to support these initiatives at scale—ensuring seamless, interoperable healthcare for every citizen?
Reliable connectivity ensures that people can access care from their homes—follow-up visits, nursing support, mental health services, and more—without long wait times at hospitals. It builds trust. Once citizens trust the system, they're more likely to use it.
We're aligning our telecom expansion to support platforms like eSanjeevani and ABDM, so that healthcare is not just digitally available but also consistent and user-friendly across all levels—from rural health centres to AIIMS.
Q. Given that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is not currently undertaking consultations with civil society, experts, or researchers on framing rules for internet suspension under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, how will the Ministry ensure that internet shutdowns do not hinder access to essential healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas?
Internet shutdowns are extremely rare and treated as exceptions. They're only imposed when the government believes the risk to public order outweighs the benefit. Such decisions undergo strict review processes every 24 hours and cannot exceed 15 days under any circumstance.
Importantly, any shutdown requires authorisation from both state and central secretaries, ensuring that no unilateral action disrupts essential services like healthcare.
Q. With the convergence of 5G, AI, IoT, and cloud, what opportunities do you see for technology to address India's healthcare challenges—particularly in diagnostics, treatment, mental health, and workforce shortages?
Integration is the key. We need a system where electronic health records, insurance, pharmacies, and preventive care are all connected. This will allow us to make data-driven decisions, ensure pricing transparency, avoid drug errors, and forecast disease burdens more accurately.
Emerging tech—especially AI and cloud computing—can fill critical gaps in mental health access, diagnostics, and workforce shortages by enabling remote triage, virtual counselling, and decision support tools for clinicians.
Q. What is your vision for a digitally empowered healthcare system where every doctor—whether in an AIIMS, a private clinic, or a rural PHC—can deliver world-class care? And how can industry, the medical community, and citizens contribute to this journey?
It all starts with standardisation and capacity building. We must ensure that doctors, nurses, and paramedics meet well-defined competencies before entering the healthcare system. We need to raise the bar for medical education and test whether these professionals are truly prepared.
At the infrastructure level, every hospital—public or private—must follow accreditation norms. The private sector, tech industry, and citizens can contribute by investing in healthtech, promoting responsible data use, and adopting digital tools that improve care outcomes.
Ultimately, connectivity, standardization, and inclusion will drive us toward a truly Health-First India.
Watch the conversation here:
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
22 minutes ago
- Indian Express
Why pineapple is the anti-inflammatory superfood we all need
Written by Simrat Kathuria Pineapple is much more than a tasty treat with its golden flesh and tropical scent. This fruit has significant nutrition value, primarily due to the vitamins, minerals and bioactive substances it contains. But it is that superfruit which can effectively address heart disease, diabetes, liver health and obesity, all of which Indians are more vulnerable to. However, we have to eat it mindfully. Good for heart health Pineapple is higher in bromelain, an enzyme that offers both anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Research indicates that the bromelain in pineapple may assist with the reduction of clotting leading to improved blood flow and lower risk of a cardiovascular event like a heart attack or stroke. In addition to bromelain, pineapple has high levels of vitamin C, which supports the health of arterial walls, and potassium to regulate blood pressure, which is particularly important in India, where one in three adults may have hypertension. Can diabetics have it? While pineapple does contain sugar, it can still fit inside a diabetic approach to eating — if you have some moderation. Although it has a moderate glycemic index (GI around 59), fresh pineapple (keep in mind, eating it fresh) will not drastically raise blood sugars when eaten in small amounts. Pineapple also has the added benefit of high fibre (and water) content, which abates the absorption of the sugar component of the fruit. Canned pineapple or juice, which has added ingredients and high sugar levels should be avoided. Diabetics might consider approximately ½ cup (50–75 grams) of fresh pineapple (likely with a protein or healthy fat) for sweet treats, maintaining blood sugar and glucose levels. With Indian diets often containing processed oils and heavier spices, liver overload is becoming a significant public health issue. Since pineapple is high in antioxidants like vitamin C, manganese and flavonoids, it can act against oxidative stress, the main contributor to liver damage. Bromelain supports digestion, helping decrease inflammation, possibly lessening the burden on the liver for detoxification. In a controlled but frequent consumer, it can be supportive in normalizing liver function and protection against fatty liver disease. Pineapple is relatively low in calories (42 kcal per 100g) and fat-free, which can be draining for those wanting a tasty snack when managing weight loss targets. Its natural sweetness is great for taming sugar cravings and natural hydration while its fibre load contributes to the feeling of satiety. Bromelain can help break down proteins so that they can be easily absorbed by the body. Pineapple can be a good strategy to include in your mid-morning or afternoon snack breaks. Aim for around one cup (150 grams) per day, provided you are enjoying it as part of a balanced diet and keeping to your daily calorie allowance. (Kathuria is a clinical dietician and celebrity coach)
Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Scared of kidney stones? Surgeon says avoid these 7 foods: Meat, caffeine, juice
Kidney stones are extremely painful, and with the changing diet and lifestyle patterns, this condition is getting more common in people. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Utkarsh Gupta, minimal access and laparoscopic surgeon, Silverstreak Multispeciality Hospital said that due to changing diets, dehydration, and high intake of processed foods, kidney stones are becoming more rampant. 'While causes can vary, diet plays a major role in prevention,' the surgeon mentioned. Also read | Think you are safe from kidney stones? Doctor says these foods could be your enemy Know the habits that can sneakily trigger kidney stones.(Shutterstock) Dr Utkarsh Gupta explained 7 habits that can sneakily trigger kidney stones: 1. Oxalate-rich foods can be sneaky Leafy greens like spinach, beetroot, sweet potatoes, okra, and even nuts and berries are high in oxalates. These compounds can bind with calcium in the kidneys, forming calcium oxalate stones, the most common type. You don't have to eliminate them, but it's wise to pair such foods with calcium-rich options like milk or curd, which help block oxalate absorption. 2. Too much meat can raise uric acid Excess intake of red meat, organ meats, poultry, and fish can lead to increased uric acid and calcium in the urine. This raises the risk of uric acid and calcium stones. Limit portion sizes and mix in plant-based protein sources like dal, paneer, or tofu for balance. 3. High salt intake fuels stone formation Indians often consume salt in hidden forms, through pickles, chips, papads, and restaurant food. High sodium levels force the kidneys to excrete more calcium, promoting stone growth. Cutting down salt not only benefits your blood pressure but also protects your kidneys. Here is a list of foods you should avoid to stay safe from kidney stones.(Freepik) 4. Sugary beverages don't just harm teeth Colas, sweetened juices, and energy drinks, especially those containing high fructose corn syrup, can alter urine composition and contribute to stone formation. Opt for plain water, lemon water, or coconut water to stay hydrated the right way. 5. Caffeine and alcohol cause dehydration Excess tea, coffee, and alcohol can lead to dehydration and increased calcium loss in urine. Moderate your intake and balance it with sufficient water throughout the day. Also read | Kidney stones: Warning signs and symptoms, reasons, treatment; how to prevent 6. Vitamin C supplements may backfire Doses above 500 mg daily may increase oxalate production. If you take supplements regularly, consult your doctor, especially if you've had stones before. 7. Hydration is your easiest prevention tool Drinking 2–3 litres of water daily helps dilute stone-forming substances. Staying well-hydrated is the simplest and most effective kidney stone prevention habit. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
News18
a day ago
- News18
What's Really In Your Supplement? Expert Tips To Decode Labels Before You Buy
Last Updated: By staying informed, choosing verified products, and asking the right questions, consumers can ensure their supplements help and never harm their journey to better health. Wellness has become a priority for millions of Indians, with supplements now a go-to for filling nutritional gaps and boosting overall health. But with rising demand comes a growing challenge – the abundance of counterfeit and substandard products entering the market. These not only put consumer health at risk but also undermine the credibility of an industry that thrives on promoting well-being. 'Consumers have the right to ensure the validity of the label with the product's content," says Dr. Ashutosh Kumar Mittal, Director of Quality Control at Herbalife India. 'This is more than a personal concern, it's a shared responsibility and a public health priority," he adds. By learning how to decode health supplement labels, consumers can make informed decisions and protect themselves from unsafe or ineffective products. Why Quality Matters Supplements are widely available over the counter, but accessibility should not come at the cost of safety. 'Choosing supplements from trusted and credible sources ensures that the products are made with care, backed by science, and meet regulatory standards," Dr. Mittal explains. High-quality supplements typically offer: Accurate, well-researched ingredient composition Scientifically determined proportions for optimal effectiveness Clean manufacturing processes with rigorous safety testing Transparent health claims backed by clinical data The Counterfeit Challenge According to the World Health Organisation, at least 1 in 10 medicines in low- and middle-income countries are counterfeit, and the nutraceutical sector is not immune. 'The Indian nutraceutical segment thrives on informed choices and responsible sourcing. By opting for reputable brands, you safeguard your health and your trust," Dr. Mittal says. How to Decode a Supplement Label Your best defence as a consumer is the label, if you know what to look for. Dr Mittal shares key things to look for. License Number: Confirms licensing by Indian food safety authorities. Batch Number & Expiry Date: Key for traceability, quality, and safety. Ingredient List: Look for full disclosure; avoid vague 'proprietary blends" without details. Source of Purchase: Buy only from official brand websites, authorised distributors, or trusted retailers. Avoid suspiciously low prices and generic packaging. Awareness is Key 'Trust in the wellness industry is built on transparency, consistency, and quality," says Dr. Mittal. Leading brands are now adopting digital trackability, robust internal testing, and strict sourcing standards to reassure consumers. In a growing and competitive market, decoding supplement labels is no longer optional. It's essential. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
