Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has announced India’s latest initiative to launch its first Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) in Uttarakhand. The HEMS, stationed at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rishikesh, will play a vital role in airlifting accident victims within a 150 km radius to the medical facility, ensuring timely access to critical care.
Addressing the media, Minister Scindia emphasized the significance of the HEMS in expanding medical outreach and trauma care services, particularly in hilly terrains where access to medical facilities is often challenging.
“Assembly and certification of the helicopter to be deployed for the purpose is underway. It is on my dashboard. It is entirely my concern now not yours,” he stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to operationalize the service promptly.
The HEMS initiative aligns with the government’s vision to enhance emergency medical services and provide swift transportation for accident victims during the crucial ‘golden hour’ following an incident.
Minister Scindia underscored the strategic positioning of the helicopters at AIIMS Rishikesh, ensuring efficient coverage of a 150 km radius and prompt transportation of patients to the medical facility.
In addition to the HEMS, Minister Scindia announced another significant project aimed at enhancing air connectivity in Uttarakhand.
Responding to the state government’s request, the Civil Aviation Ministry has completed the bidding process for air connectivity from Hindon Air Base to Pithoragarh. The specific route will be awarded after further evaluation under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which aims to promote regional air connectivity across India.
Assuring Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami of ongoing developments, Minister Scindia highlighted the progress of the integrated airport building at the Uttarakhand airport. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the state’s aviation needs and ensuring seamless connectivity for its residents.
The launch of the HEMS under the ‘Sanjeevani’ project marks a significant milestone in India’s healthcare infrastructure, demonstrating the government’s proactive approach to improving emergency medical services and enhancing accessibility to critical care.
With projects like UDAN driving regional air connectivity, Uttarakhand is poised to witness transformative developments in aviation, healthcare, and overall infrastructure.
