AI can revolutionise healthcare, says Union Minister Anupriya Patel

Artificial intelligence is a powerful enabler that can transform disease surveillance, diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare delivery, and act as an assistive force that strengthens doctors, not replace them, said Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel.

Participating as the chief guest in the second convocation ceremony of AIIMS, Mangalagiri, on Tuesday (February 17, 2026), Ms. Anupriya Patel said that when aligned with public purpose, technology can expand access, improve efficiency, and save lives.

She told the students that a convocation does not mark the end of learning, but the beginning of a lifelong journey of continuous growth, discovery, and service to humanity.

Later, Minister for Human Resources and Development N. Lokesh, who participated in the event as the Guest of Honour, recalled the growth of the institute from a modest beginning in 2015 to comprehensive tertiary care institution with nearly 650 functional beds, over 1,300 students, and advanced services including open-heart surgeries, kidney transplants, robotic knee replacements, advanced oncology care, and Cath lab facilities.

Paying tribute to the selfless service of doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that while technology and AI will continue to advance healthcare, the healing power of human touch, empathy, and humility remain irreplaceable.

Degrees were conferred on 49 MBBS students, five postgraduate students, and four PDCC graduates during the ceremony. Executive Director and CEO Ahanthem Santa Singh presented the institute’s project report, outlining the progress achieved in academics, patient care, infrastructure expansion, research, and super-specialty services. He congratulated the graduating students on successfully completing their rigorous training.