Sarma: Neotia centre will benefit NE states

Guwahati: Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a massive healthcare infrastructure overhaul for Assam, while inaugurating the Neotia Bhagirathi Woman and Childcare Centre (NBWCC) in Guwahati here on Thursday.During the event, the Assam CM revealed plans to invest Rs 4000 crore in expanding the Gauhati Medical College & Hospital (GMCH) into a 5000-bed facility.He also praised the newly-inaugurated NBWC centre saying that he was happy that the group had invested in Assam " I am sure that the people of Assam, along with other northeastern states, will immensely benefit from this venture of the Neotia Group," said Sarma.The state-of-the-art 100-bed facility is specifically designed to provide specialised, high-quality care across obstetrics, gynaecology, neonatology, infertility treatments, and paediatrics.During the inauguration, Harshavardhan Neotia, chairman of Ambuja Neotia Group, said, "The inauguration of the hospital represents an important turning point for us as we extend our footprint into the north-eastern region. Having built a trusted legacy in woman and child healthcare across eastern India, this expansion underscores our commitment to enhancing access to quality healthcare in emerging regions."Through this facility, we aim to bring advanced clinical care, cutting-edge technology and specialised services to women and children not only in Assam but across the neighbouring states, added Neotia.Himanta also announced that 24 new medical colleges will be established across Assam by 2029. This expansion will significantly boost the state's existing network of 14 medical colleges.The investment in GMCH is expected to significantly reduce patient load on existing facilities. The initiative aligns with the state government's broader strategy to make quality healthcare accessible and affordable across rural and urban areas."Our vision is to transform Assam into a medical hub for the entire northeast region, and the Rs 4000 crore investment in GMCH will help us materialise our vision by converting it into a 5000-bed facility," said Sarma during the inauguration ceremony.Sarma highlighted the state's progressive approach to healthcare development, noting, "Assam already operates 14 medical colleges, and we expect the Pragjyotishpur Medical College to become operational within this year. We actively welcome private investment in the health sector to better serve our patients' diverse medical needs."