Amaravati Set to Become a Global Healthcare Hub, Says Andhra Pradesh CM

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has expressed confidence that Amaravati will emerge as a major international healthcare destination, attracting patients from around the world for advanced medical treatment.

Speaking after inaugurating the 600-bed Lalitha Hospital in Guntur on Wednesday, Naidu said the state is building a healthcare ecosystem capable of positioning Amaravati on the global medical tourism map. Drawing parallels with the growth of health tourism in Hyderabad, he said Andhra Pradesh is preparing for a similar transformation.

Spread across seven acres, the newly launched hospital offers services across 32 specialties , including cardiology, neurology, and joint replacement. Naidu praised the Lalitha Group for its contribution to healthcare and for introducing state-of-the-art MRI facilities .

The Chief Minister also highlighted the government's flagship Sanjeevani digital health initiative, which aims to deliver comprehensive healthcare services through digital health records , home-based screenings, and technology-driven medical guidance. The program includes 42 types of health tests that can be conducted at residents’ doorsteps and is designed around predictive, preventive, and curative healthcare models.

Naidu said the state's Universal Health Policy provides free medical treatment coverage of up to ₹2.5 lakh per family , while stressing that disease prevention should remain a priority. He encouraged citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles, emphasizing the role of nutrition, yoga, and overall well-being in maintaining good health.

Describing food as the first line of healthcare, he called for greater awareness about dietary habits and preventive wellness practices. He also expressed concern over the increasing reliance on chemically grown produce compared to traditional farming methods.

The Chief Minister criticized the previous YSRCP government, alleging that the availability of poor-quality liquor during its tenure contributed to serious health problems among many residents and reflected a failure to protect public welfare.