Date: March 8, 2024
In a significant stride towards bolstering healthcare infrastructure, the Union Minister of State (MoS) for Tourism, Shri. Shripad Naik, presided over the handover and flagging off ceremony of four Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) ambulances. This noble initiative, made possible through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) assistance by the Housing & Urban Development Corporation, was conducted at Van Bhavan, Altinho. The event was graced by the presence of the Health Minister, Shri Vishwajit P. Rane, along with Director of Health Services (DHS), Dr. Geeta Kakodkar, and various dignitaries.
The ambulances, equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities and advanced life support systems, were handed over to the Directorate of Health Services – Goa. This marks a significant enhancement in the emergency medical services available to the residents of Goa, particularly during critical situations requiring immediate medical attention.
Speaking at the ceremony, Union MoS for Tourism, Shri. Shripad Naik, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing healthcare needs. He praised the partnership between the government and corporate entities, exemplified by the Housing & Urban Development Corporation’s CSR initiative, as a commendable model for public welfare.
Health Minister Shri Vishwajit P. Rane expressed his gratitude for the addition of these advanced ambulances to the state’s healthcare infrastructure. He highlighted the critical role these ambulances would play in saving lives during medical emergencies, especially in remote or hard-to-reach areas. 
The Director of Health Services, Dr. Geeta Kakodkar, outlined the strategic placement and deployment plan for the ACLS ambulances across the state. She assured the public that these ambulances would be operated by highly trained medical professionals to ensure swift and efficient emergency response.
The event witnessed the symbolic flagging off of the ambulances by Shri. Shripad Naik, Shri Vishwajit P. Rane, and Dr. Geeta Kakodkar. The convoy of life-saving vehicles is expected to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape of Goa, providing critical support in times of medical crises.
This collaborative effort between the government, corporate sector, and healthcare authorities exemplifies the commitment to the well-being of the citizens. The ACLS ambulances serve as a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in advancing healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the safety and health of the community.