Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 01 January 2025
In a move that could revolutionise healthcare in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a ‘Specialised Medicare City’ may soon be part of the region’s upcoming development projects. This announcement, hinted at by the Lieutenant Governor during the 16th Apna Pariwar Global Business Conclave, could potentially offer a much-needed solution to the Islanders’ long-standing struggles with limited medical facilities.
The lack of advanced healthcare infrastructure in the archipelago has been a persistent challenge. Residents often endure financial strain and emotional distress, with many travelling to mainland cities like Chennai for specialised treatments unavailable in the islands. This routine exodus for medical care not only disrupts lives but also highlights the urgent need for robust local healthcare solutions.
In 2024, concerns over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS) came under the spotlight, with calls for the institution to be brought under the management of AIIMS to ensure access to a wider range of medical specialists and advanced facilities. Member of Parliament even urged the Central Government to take decisive action to address the gaps in healthcare delivery.
Amid these discussions, the Lieutenant Governor’s recent remarks have offered a glimmer of hope. Addressing the gathering at 16th Apna Pariwar Global Business Conclave on December 20, 2024, he shared the vision of the Hon’ble Home Minister for a ‘Specialised Medicare City’ in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This facility, he revealed, aims to attract patients from across the globe, offering absolute high-end medical services.
If realised, the ‘Specialised Medicare City’ could be a game-changer for the islands, bringing super-specialty healthcare to residents’ doorsteps. This initiative also presents an opportunity for the government to negotiate benefits for locals, such as free access to advanced treatments or a state-funded insurance scheme could be offered, covering comprehensive medical care for all Islanders.
The project could position the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a key player in medical tourism, leveraging its strategic location near Southeast Asian Countries and proximity to major tourist destinations. This development aligns with the Government of India’s broader plans to transform the islands into a hub of economic growth.
For the people of Andaman and Nicobar, the hint of a ‘Specialised Medicare City’ represents more than a healthcare solution—it is a beacon of hope for better living standards. While details are awaited, the possibility of such a transformative project underscores the government’s commitment to the region’s holistic development.