The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced on 29 October 2026 that Union Health Minister Shri J.P. Nadda visited AIIMS, New Delhi, to review sanitation and waste management under Special Campaign 6. The Minister inspected a new Patient Waiting Lounge, built by Bharat Electronics Limited, which is proposed to be used as an Aashray Shelter for up to 897 economically disadvantaged patients and their attendants. The release does not say when the shelter takes effect, though AIIMS already operates Aashray as a 24-hour facility. The visit also highlighted AIIMS' efforts in water reuse and energy conservation.
Key points
- New Aashray Shelter: Designed seating capacity of 897 persons
- Energy Savings: Electricity consumption declined by 10.5 per cent
- Water Reuse: Approximately 19.6 lakh litres of treated wastewater reused daily for horticulture
- Mobility: 40 free in-campus electric vehicle shuttle services for patients and attendants
- Cost Reduction: Electricity expenditure was approximately ₹1.98 crore lower in Jan-Oct 2025 vs 2024
When it applies
- Visit by Union Health Minister to AIIMS New Delhi
Who it affects
- economically disadvantaged patients and their attendants