India is set to launch its first Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) from Uttarakhand, announced Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Thursday (February 15).
In a video shared on various platforms, Minister Scindia conveyed, “I want to inform the people of Uttarakhand that the country’s first HEMS service will be launched from the state.”
Enhancing emergency medical response
This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance emergency medical response by providing swift airlift services to those in critical condition. Under this initiative, a dedicated helicopter will be stationed at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Uttarakhand.
The strategically located helicopter will be capable of covering a radius of 150 kilometers, enabling it to rapidly reach accident sites and transport patients to medical facilities.
Scindia informed that the ongoing efforts in the assembly and certification process for the helicopter designated for this purpose. He assured the public that the matter is under his direct supervision, stating, “It is on my dashboard. It is entirely my concern now, not yours.”
About HEMS service
The HEMS service is expected to play a crucial role in saving lives during medical emergencies, especially in difficult-to-reach areas or areas with inadequate road infrastructure. The initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and emergency response services across the country.