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Union Minister: Ethics Crucial for AI in Indian Healthcare
15 Feb
Summary
- AI is vital for India's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision and universal health coverage.
- India carries nearly 20% of the global disease burden, AI can improve access.
- AI adoption must be guided by safeguards, privacy, and professional training.
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, stated on February 15, 2026, that while artificial intelligence (AI) is a necessity, its application in healthcare requires a strong focus on safety, responsibility, and ethics. AI is central to India's goal of 'Viksit Bharat 2047' and achieving universal health coverage, especially given India's significant disease burden.
The minister was speaking at the National Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Health Care and Education (NCAIHC-2026) at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The conference's theme, 'AI for Viksit Bharat: Transforming Health Care and Learning,' brought together national experts.
Patel highlighted initiatives like telemedicine and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, alongside the development of India-specific AI solutions. She underscored that AI adoption must be underpinned by regulatory safeguards, data privacy, transparency, and enhanced capacity building for healthcare professionals.
BHU Vice Chancellor Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi urged for the direct and responsible integration of AI into IMS-BHU's healthcare system. He proposed a dedicated task force to ensure compliance and structured implementation, emphasizing the need for preparedness alongside technological advancement.
UP Ayush Minister Daya Shankar Mishra acknowledged the demands on Sir Sunderlal Hospital and encouraged professionals to blend technology with compassion. He expressed confidence that AI adoption would bolster the hospital's regional healthcare role.
