Mandali said 148 taluk hospitals have 24/7 specialists and 108 ambulance service strengthened under government control
Gadag
Gadag District Congress Campaign Committee President Ashok Mandali said that the Congress government has taken strong and planned steps to improve the health system in Karnataka over the last 2.5 years, aiming to provide better medical services to all citizens.
Speaking at a press briefing, he said the state government has allocated ₹17,473 crore for the health sector in the 2026–27 budget, placing Karnataka among the top five states in India in per capita health spending.
He said infant mortality has reduced from 17% in 2021 to 14% in 2023, while ₹320 crore has been allocated to reduce maternal deaths. Under the “Lakshya” programme, maternity wards, ICUs, and operation theatres have been upgraded. The government has also set up 11 breast milk banks to reduce newborn deaths and aims to bring maternal and infant mortality rates to single digits by 2030.
Mandali said 148 taluk hospitals now have 24/7 specialists in gynaecology, anaesthesia, and paediatrics. The 108 ambulance service has also been strengthened and brought fully under government control to improve emergency response.
He highlighted the “Home Health” scheme, which provides door-to-door health screening, blood tests, ECG, and medicine distribution through ASHA workers and health officers. In serious cases, free treatment is provided in government hospitals. The scheme, first launched in Kolar, has now been expanded statewide.
He said the government is also focusing on controlling non-communicable diseases, banning substandard medicines and harmful food colours, and improving rural healthcare infrastructure. Around 32,000 health posts are being filled, and salaries of doctors and nurses under the National Health Mission have been revised.
Mandali added that major investments are being made, including ₹413 crore for a comprehensive health scheme, ₹1,800 crore for Bengaluru development projects, and upgrades to district and taluk hospitals. More than 262 ambulances have been added, and over 6,000 health and wellness centres are functioning across rural areas.
He said Karnataka is working towards reducing maternal deaths below global targets by 2030 and strengthening emergency, cardiac, and neurological care systems across the state.
Officials said these initiatives aim to improve healthcare access, strengthen rural services, and ensure quality treatment for all citizens.