The first meeting of the PAFI Healthcare Council was held in New Delhi on 6 October 2023 under the Chatham House Rule.

The purpose and focus of the council were discussed, and members shared ideas to enhance the role of PAFI and its members in partnering with the government on the overall objectives for the healthcare sector. Members raised universal healthcare coverage, preventive health measures, Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and opportunities for companies to manufacture locally as some of the issues that the council could take up in subsequent meetings.

Krishna Sarma, Managing Partner, Corporate Law Group, shared her thoughts on ‘The emerging healthcare landscape in India.’ She highlighted the trends in the Healthcare and Healthcare Financing and Insurance sectors. The ensuing conversation discussed upcoming challenges and opportunities in the health and wellness space for India.

A conversation with C.K. Mishra, Former Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, on ‘The prospects and challenges for the healthcare sector in India and how the private sector can partner with the government’, took up the points that had emerged from the first conversation. Mr. Mishra emphasised the private sector’s role in markets beyond metro cities. He urged the industry to focus on emerging threats, such as rising non-communicable diseases in India.