Emphasis on cleanliness being universally appreciated: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the Central Government's cleanliness drive in the country is being appreciated universally, adding that it will help India become disease-free.

Addressing a gathering here, the Prime Minister said, "The Government's emphasis on cleanliness is being appreciated universally . The drive is important as clean India ensures people do not suffer from diseases."

He further stated that the upcoming Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (Ayushman Bharat scheme) will transform the health sector, ensuring top medical services at affordable prices for the poor.

"The health sector requires good doctors and paramedical staff. We also want medical instruments to be made in India. The sector must also keep pace with the technological advancements globally," the Prime Minister said.

He added that the Government of India has started Jan Aushadhi stores, which is reducing the prices of medicines as it is important that the poor and the middle class get access to affordable medicines.

Prime Minister Modi stated that as many as nine schemes worth Rs 500 crore have been initiated.

"There are nine initiatives, worth over Rs 500 crore, which have either been dedicated to the nation or their foundation stones are being laid. There is new energy and vibrancy in India's development journey," he said.

He also said that Gujarat will have new medical colleges and hospitals, adding that the Government is also striving to address the acute water shortages in the state.

"Medical colleges and hospitals are coming up across Gujarat. These will not only help patients but also those who want to study medicine. In Gujarat, there is a constant effort to ensure adequate water reaches every part of the state. We are also working towards water conservation," Prime Minister Modi added.

Prime Minister Modi is on a one-day visit to the state. He inaugurated several development projects during his visit to Junagadh, including a government civil hospital, 13 projects of Junagadh Municipal Corporation and a milk processing plant at Khokharda.

He earlier addressed gatherings at Valsad district and will visit the state capital Gandhinagar to deliver the convocation address of the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University before attending a meeting at the Somnath Trust there.