Terming health as the fundamental right and emphasising the need to make quality healthcare accessible to all as desired by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Dr Balbir Singh on Saturday urged private hospitals to reserve at least 20 percent of their beds under government schemes to ensure affordable patient care to all.
Addressing a session titled “Hospitals and Healthcare” on the second day of the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit 2026, the Minister said stronger collaboration between the government and corporate healthcare providers is essential to ensure universal and equitable healthcare services.
Dr Balbir Singh highlighted the state government’s efforts to reduce disparities in healthcare access between rural and urban areas through the expansion of Aam Aadmi Clinics. “Punjab has established 565 clinics in villages and 318 in urban areas, particularly in underprivileged localities.
Our aim is to provide world-class healthcare facilities to the remotest areas across the state,” he said. Calling upon corporate hospitals to contribute to the vision of universal healthcare Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, the Minister said, “At least 20 percent of beds in private hospitals should be reserved for patients who cannot afford treatment.
These services need not always be free, as hospitals can receive compensation through government health schemes, ensuring they do not incur losses while supporting the needy.” Inviting investors to explore opportunities in the health sector, Principal Secretary Health and Family Welfare Kumar Rahul said Punjab offers a conducive ecosystem for healthcare investments, with the government providing land, policy support, incentives and fast-track approvals.
The session featured prominent panelists including Director Homi Bhabha Dr Ashish Gulia, CEO Livasa Hospitals Anurag Yadav, Medical Director Fortis Healthcare Dr Vikramjit Singh Dhaliwal and Senior Interventional Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals New Delhi Prof Dr Vivek Gupta, while, Sandeep Jha from KPMG was moderating the session.