Odisha to Get 8 New Government Medical Colleges: Dr. Mukesh Mahaling

Bhubaneswar, 24 June 2025: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) successfully organized its maiden edition of CII Healthcare Summit 2025 in Bhubaneswar on 24 June 2025. The summit revolved around the theme Integrating Innovation, Wellness and Care for a Healthier Tomorrow.

The summit was inaugurated by Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Odisha. In his address, Dr. Mahaling emphasized the state’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and medical education. He announced the establishment of eight new government medical colleges, one Ayurvedic college, and four government dental colleges. Additionally, he highlighted the recruitment of over 4,000 doctors and paramedical staff in the past year, with plans to recruit more than 5,000 medical personnel this year. Hon’ble Minister also assured efforts to fill 1.5 lakh vacant government posts within five years.

Mr. Sunil Gupta, Chairman, CII Odisha State Council and Chief Operating Officer, Vedanta Limited, Jharsuguda, underscored Odisha’s growing role in the national healthcare landscape and the importance of public-private partnerships in driving future growth.

Dr. Alok Srivastava, Convenor, CII Odisha Healthcare Panel and Chief Operating Officer & DMS, Apollo Hospitals – Bhubaneswar, highlighted Odisha’s prospects in medical device manufacturing, the significance of innovation, and the potential for medical tourism. He stated, “Affordable healthcare, local innovations, and entrepreneurship are key to transforming Odisha’s healthcare sector. Medical tourism is poised to grow significantly, and Odisha can benefit immensely.”

Mr. G. Suresha, Vice Chairman, CII Odisha State Council and Executive Director, AM/NS India, expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and participants for their contributions in shaping the future of healthcare in Odisha.

The summit featured four technical sessions to foster collaboration, innovation, and investment in Odisha’s evolving healthcare landscape. “Healing Meets Heritage: Unlocking Odisha’s Potential as a Medical Tourism Hub” explored how the state’s rich cultural and natural assets can be harnessed to attract healthcare travellers. “Wellness Beyond Wages: Holistic Worker Health in Manufacturing Hubs” addressed strategies to support comprehensive wellbeing for industrial workers. “Smart Health: AI and IoT Integration Boosting Startups” examined the role of emerging technologies in empowering healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship. And “Health Insurance & Financing: Reaching the Last Mile” focused on expanding access to financial protection and care for underserved communities. In sidelines of the summit an exhibition, as well as B2B and B2G meetings, facilitated strategic partnerships and investment opportunities across sector.

The summit brought together healthcare leaders, policymakers, technology innovators, investors, and wellness experts to shape Odisha’s journey towards becoming a premier healthcare and wellness hub in Eastern India. Focus areas included medical equipment manufacturing, digital health, hospital infrastructure, medical tourism, health insurance, wellness, and investment promotion, serving as a dynamic platform for collaboration and growth.