Jagat Prakash Nadda, Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, stated that stroke remains a major health challenge affecting individuals, families and communities. Addressing the third edition of FICCI National Stroke Summit 2026 virtually, he emphasised the need for timely diagnosis, quick referral and access to treatment.
“Timely diagnosis of stroke, quick referral and access to quality treatment can save life and lifelong disability,” he said.
Nadda stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is working towards building healthcare systems that are accessible, affordable and enabled by technology. He highlighted initiatives such as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, which aim to strengthen healthcare delivery, digital systems and critical care capacity.
He added that while technology, digital health and data platforms play a role, coordination and collective action are required. “I urge all stakeholders to work together to strengthen management of stroke at state level, expand training and specialist capacity and leverage digital platforms for a faster and a better care,” he said.
Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare and MoS (I/C), Ayush, Government of India, stated that the government is working to strengthen the healthcare system to ensure timely treatment. He highlighted measures including promotion of the 112 ambulance number, development of critical care and super speciality blocks under the National Health Mission, and deployment of mobile medical units in rural and remote areas.
He added that the hub and spoke model will support stroke care delivery, where regional centres identify patients and provide first aid, and specialised hospitals deliver critical care. “Stoke treatment is also covered under the Ayushman Bharat. States will have to play critical role as the success of stroke treatment will depend on how states implement these plans at ground level,” he said.
Dr Sunil K Barnwal stated that the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission enables the development of a connected healthcare system. “We need to move from a fragmented healthcare system to an integrated healthcare system, and it is not about hi-end equipment or technology, but it is more about the health history and records of the patient,” he said.
Dr Anil Bonde highlighted the need to increase awareness about stroke, particularly in rural areas, and noted that treatment is covered under Ayushman Bharat.
Harsh Mahajan stated that stroke accounts for over 18 lakh new cases annually in India, contributing to around 10 per cent of all deaths. “A large proportion of these cases are preventable, and outcomes can be significantly improved through timely recognition and intervention. The theme of the Summit – ‘Stroke Pe Rok’ calls for stronger focus on prevention, awareness and early action,” he said.
Dr Prashant Mathur and Mandeep Singh Kumar also highlighted the need for increased awareness of stroke.
The summit included the unveiling of a stroke action plan and the release of stroke-ready centres with thrombectomy capability, along with a partnership showcase.