New Delhi: This year, approximately 120,000 pilgrims from India participated in the Haj pilgrimage, supported by a contingent of 356 doctors and paramedics dedicated to their medical care.
On Friday, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra unveiled the “Medical Care Arrangements for Haj Pilgrimage” document in collaboration with the Ministry of Minority Affairs. Mohammed Shahid Alam, Consulate General of India in Jeddah (virtually present), representatives from WHO, and other stakeholders attended the event.
According to the Ministry of Health, the Haj pilgrimage stands as the largest and most enduring annual mass gathering globally. The responsibility for medical arrangements falls under the Emergency Medical Relief Division and the International Health Division of the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health.
Chandra emphasized, “This document outlines the roadmap for healthcare services and accessibility for the pilgrims.” Reflecting on the second year of the Union Health Ministry overseeing healthcare, he noted, “This experience has provided valuable insights for enhancing healthcare services.”
With harsh weather conditions posing health challenges this year, round-the-clock services were necessary for the approximately 120,000 pilgrims, including 40,000 aged 60 and above. Chandra highlighted advancements in oral health and dental care services based on past experiences.
This year, nearly 200,000 outpatient department visits were conducted, complemented by medical team visits to pilgrims. Chandra highlighted the development of a live portal by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), enabling real-time data and analysis on medical care services for pilgrims.
“We are continuously monitoring these efforts, aiming to set a benchmark of excellence for other countries to follow,” Chandra remarked.
He underscored India’s commitment to aiding its citizens worldwide, citing recent efforts to evacuate students from Ukraine and assist citizens during crises in Kuwait. India has also supported citizens from European countries in times of need.
Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), L S Changsan, emphasized the importance of comprehensive healthcare planning for such large gatherings, especially in Saudi Arabia’s challenging climate. She highlighted strategic placement of medical teams in Mecca and Medina for pilgrim convenience, alongside collaboration with NIC on real-time data access through a dedicated portal.
Changsan acknowledged the dedication of medical teams in Saudi Arabia and commended the collective efforts of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Consulate General of India in Jeddah, Haj Committee of India, NIC, WHO India, HLL Lifecare Limited, central government hospitals, all AIIMS, and institutions nationwide.
Alam stressed the document’s significance in institutionalizing healthcare arrangements for Indian pilgrims, sharing insights and challenges encountered during Haj operations.
