In a significant step toward boosting medical infrastructure and research in Maharashtra, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, today performed the Bhoomi Pujan of Poona Lifespace International (PHRC) in Pune. The ceremony, held on a sprawling 14-acre site, marks the beginning of an ambitious project that aims to transform Pune into a leading hub for medical education, research, and healthcare services.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde and Union Minister of State for Cooperation Shri Muralidhar Mohol.
A Vision for Medical Excellence
Addressing the gathering, Shri Amit Shah highlighted that once completed, the medical college and research center will accommodate 6,000 students from Pune and across Maharashtra, offering extensive courses in medical sciences. The project is set to provide crucial healthcare services to Pune city as well as the broader region of Western Maharashtra.
“PHRC Life Science Organization has decided to advance medical services, education, and medical research over 14 acres with a built-up area of 1.4 million square feet,” said Shri Shah. “This initiative will usher in a new direction, a fresh perspective, and a new era in healthcare.”
Modi Government’s Holistic Health Reforms
Linking the new initiative to broader national goals, Shri Shah detailed the transformative steps taken by the Narendra Modi government in healthcare over the past 11 years. He noted significant achievements, including:
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Construction of 15 crore toilets to promote hygiene and sanitation.
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Launch of International Yoga Day to promote physical and mental well-being.
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The Fit India movement, encouraging a nationwide culture of fitness.
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Mission Indradhanush, ensuring free vaccination for children up to 16 years of age.
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Ayushman Bharat Yojana, offering free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh for the poor.
Shri Shah emphasized that the government has not only focused on infrastructure but has also taken decisive steps to make healthcare more accessible and affordable:
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Doubling of medical seats and a 2.5-fold increase in postgraduate medical seats.
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Introduction of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras, offering medicines at only 20% of market prices.
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Massive increase in the health budget, rising from ₹37,000 crore in 2013-14 to ₹1.37 lakh crore in 2025-26.
The Union Home Minister also underscored the creation of:
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730 Integrated Public Health Labs
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3,382 Public Health Units
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602 Critical Care Boxes
“All these arrangements have been made with a well-thought-out holistic approach to improve the health of citizens,” Shri Shah said. “Unless the society unites and the feeling of health security becomes a mass movement, no government can protect all its citizens.”
Transforming Pune’s Healthcare Landscape
The PHRC project is envisioned as a state-of-the-art institution that will integrate medical services, research facilities, and educational infrastructure. The establishment of such a large-scale medical center in Pune is expected to:
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Create significant employment opportunities.
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Enhance healthcare accessibility for residents of Pune and surrounding districts.
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Drive advanced research in medical sciences.
The Bhoomi Pujan marks a critical milestone in the journey to establish Poona Lifespace International as a premier center for healthcare innovation and education, in line with the Modi government’s commitment to ensuring world-class medical infrastructure across India.
