Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated a newly built 30-bed Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Hospital in Kala Amb, Himachal Pradesh for improving healthcare services for workers. The facility, which can be expanded to accommodate up to 100 beds in the future, represents a crucial development in enhancing the reach and quality of healthcare under the ESI scheme in the region.
During the event, Dr. Mandaviya also honoured the construction workers who contributed to building the hospital, emphasizing the government’s respect and appreciation for the nation’s labour force.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mandaviya stated, “This hospital is more than just a building; it is a symbol of reverence for our Shram Shakti the hardworking people who are the backbone of our country. Empowering and recognizing their contributions is vital for the nation’s progress.”
A significant announcement made by the Minister was the government’s plan to establish medical colleges in all ESIC hospitals that have 200 or more beds. Notably, 40% of the seats in these institutions will be reserved for the children of insured workers, expanding educational access for labourers’ families.
Dr. Mandaviya praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for being the first leader to truly value and uplift India’s workforce. He noted that the expansion of ESIC facilities, including this newly inaugurated hospital, is a testament to the government’s mission of serving workers across the country.
He reiterated that ESIC hospitals cater to all workers, regardless of the cost of treatment whether it’s a few rupees or a crore. He affirmed the government’s commitment to providing quality care for the poor, stressing that every life holds equal value. “When a file requesting Rs. 2 crore worth of life-saving medicine for the son of a poor insured worker reached us, we approved it immediately. No one should be denied healthcare due to poverty,” he said.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that the government is focused on creating a healthy population, which would lead to a healthy society and ultimately a stronger nation. He also assured that all vacant posts in ESIC hospitals will be filled on a priority basis to ensure that workers receive the medical services they are entitled to.
The Kala Amb hospital, built at an estimated cost of Rs. 100 crore, is set to benefit over one lakh people in Sirmaur and nearby districts. It will provide comprehensive medical services with departments such as General Medicine, Surgery, Gynaecology, Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology, and Dental, along with modern facilities like a modular operation theatre, CSSD, and a medical gas pipeline system. Both outpatient (OPD) and inpatient (IPD) care will be available, ensuring improved access to quality healthcare for ESI beneficiaries in the region.
