New Delhi, Dec 24 (Agency) Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman today said Medical Tourism in India, is estimated to be around USD nine billion which makes it stand at no.10 in the Global Medical Tourism Index. In her address at the 35th Convocation of the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University here, she said approximately two million patients visit India each year from 78 countries for medical, wellness and IVF treatments. She said India is recognised as the pharmacy of the world.
“We produce medicines which are so sought after by many countries for two reasons, Global standard with which they’re manufactured and Economy (cost) of the medicine”. Nirmala said India supplies approximately 50% of all Africa’s demand of generic medicine, 40% of USA’s demand of generic medicine, 25% of UK’s demand of all medicines, 60% of global vaccines and 70% of WHO’s vaccines, as per essential Immunisation scheme. A total of 29,579 candidates from 709 affiliated institutions of the University were conferred degrees during the Convocation. Tamil Nadu Governor R.N.Ravi, Health Minister Ma.Subramanian and University Vice Chancellor Dr Sudhay Seshayyan are among thos who were present on the occasion.