Every year, we observe World Health Day on 7th April to remind ourselves of the importance of good health and well-being. It is not just a day of awareness, but also a day of reflection—to look back, take lessons, and move ahead with a renewed commitment to create a healthier society for all.

Good health is the foundation of a happy and productive life. Without it, dreams remain distant. Coming from a background of poverty and struggle, I have witnessed the painful impact of lack of access to basic healthcare. That is why health has always been a priority in everything we do at KIIT, KISS, and KIMS.

In our journey of nation-building through education, we understood early on that education alone is not enough. A child cannot study well if he or she is not healthy. That is why Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) was established—to provide quality healthcare that is accessible, affordable, and compassionate.

Today, KIMS has grown into one of the finest healthcare institutions in Eastern India. With world-class infrastructure, dedicated doctors, nurses, and paramedics, we provide care to lakhs of patients every year. What makes me happy is that thousands of poor patients, who otherwise could not afford treatment, receive free or subsidised care here.

KIMS is not just a hospital; it is a mission. We combine treatment with empathy. Every person who walks into KIMS is treated with dignity, regardless of their background.

Under the same spirit, we ensure that all 40,000 tribal students at KISS receive round-the-clock healthcare. From regular check-ups to emergency treatments, we leave no stone unturned in taking care of their physical and mental well-being. This is possible because we believe health is not a privilege; it is a right.

We also believe in prevention. Our institutions carry out health awareness programmes in villages, run medical camps, and promote hygiene and nutrition, especially among women and children. We have seen how simple efforts can bring big changes.

The theme of this year’s World Health Day reminds us to build a fairer and healthier world. I believe that we must continue to work in this direction—with compassion, inclusiveness, and purpose.

I thank all healthcare workers, not only at KIMS but across the globe, for their tireless service. Let us take inspiration from them and do our bit to create a healthier society.

On this World Health Day, let us remember—health is the greatest wealth.