CM Rekha Gupta Sets Ambitious Goal for Delhi Healthcare: 3 Hospital Beds Per 1,000 Citizens
Delhi, May 29 (The Trending People): In a landmark move aimed at overhauling Delhi’s healthcare infrastructure, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced her government’s commitment to achieving a target of three hospital beds per 1,000 citizens, a significant leap from the current figure of 0.47. The announcement came just ahead of the Delhi government's 100-day report card, scheduled to be presented on May 31.
A Critical Infrastructure Gap: CM Acknowledges Past Failures
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for a new footpath at the SU Block park in Pitampura (Shalimar Bagh Assembly constituency), CM Gupta addressed a crowd of local residents and reflected on the shortcomings of previous administrations.
“Delhi had only 0.47 hospital beds per 1,000 people — not even one bed per 1,000 citizens. This is a serious concern,” she said.
Highlighting the urgency of healthcare reform, Gupta criticized earlier governments for “neglecting people’s long-standing problems” under the guise of political conflict. She stated that this neglect led to avoidable suffering for the people of Delhi.
100 Days of Governance: Key Milestones and Upcoming Report Card
As her administration nears its 100-day milestone on May 30, the Chief Minister stated that her government has been focused on policy decisions that address public grievances rather than making grand promises.
“We do not make big promises. But Delhi has now elected a government that can reduce problems. Your trust is our effort,” she affirmed.
CM Gupta promised to present a detailed report card on May 31, outlining the work done during the initial 100 days in office.
Health Sector in Focus: WHO Guidelines and Local Reality
Citing the World Health Organization’s recommendation of at least 2 beds per 1,000 people, Gupta said that Delhi’s current infrastructure falls drastically short of global standards. The new target of 3 beds per 1,000 people goes even beyond WHO norms, setting a new benchmark for urban healthcare planning in India.
“We are working toward a goal of 3 beds per 1,000 people. Whether it’s with the MCD, the Delhi Government, or the Central Government, we aim to create an integrated system so that no Delhiite dies due to lack of treatment,” she added.
Ayushman Bharat Implementation in Delhi: Healthcare for All
Another key highlight of her address was the implementation of Ayushman Bharat in Delhi, which had previously faced hurdles due to political differences between the state and the Centre. CM Gupta credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enabling the rollout of this flagship scheme.
“Ayushman Yojana cards are now being made for people in Delhi. We’re covering all elderly above 70 years of age, giving them treatment up to ₹10 lakh — ₹5 lakh from the Centre and ₹5 lakh from the Delhi Government,” she said.
She claimed that this level of healthcare support — especially for the elderly — is unprecedented anywhere in the world.
Community-Centric Governance: Local Initiatives, People’s Participation
The Chief Minister’s address also reflected her people-first governance style, focusing on small but significant local projects like the footpath in Pitampura. She stressed the importance of public trust and participation, thanking residents for their continued support.
“It’s your single vote that has pushed Delhi forward on the path of progress,” Gupta concluded, expressing gratitude towards Delhi’s electorate and the Prime Minister.
Takeaway: A New Era for Healthcare in Delhi?
CM Rekha Gupta’s bold announcement signals the start of a comprehensive healthcare overhaul in Delhi, centered around infrastructure, accessibility, and integration across government levels. The ambitious target of tripling hospital beds per capita positions Delhi as a potential national model for urban healthcare reform — if successfully implemented.
Key Highlights:
- Delhi Govt Target: 3 hospital beds per 1,000 citizens (currently 0.47)
- WHO Benchmark: Minimum 2 beds per 1,000 people
- Ayushman Bharat: Implemented in Delhi, covering ₹10 lakh for elderly patients
- Healthcare Strategy: Integrated approach with MCD, state, and Centre
- Public Disclosure: 100-day governance report due on May 31