BANGALORE, India (Diya TV) — In a powerful call for healthcare equity, Indian spiritual leader Sri Madhusudan Sai highlighted the paradox of the U.S. healthcare system, calling it advanced yet inaccessible to many. “The U.S. has one of the best healthcare systems in the world,” Sai said. “But it’s not equitable. It is not available to all. It’s not affordable for all.”
This candid observation came as part of a broader initiative aimed at transforming access to pediatric cardiac care in India. The Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (SMSIMSR) in Sathya Sai Grama, Muddenahalli, has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK-based Healing Little Hearts Foundation to deliver critical care to children suffering from Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).
The collaboration arrives at a crucial time for India, where an estimated 8 to 10 out of every 1,000 children are born with CHD, according to recent data. Alarmingly, the Government of India predicts this figure may increase fivefold over the next five years, underscoring an urgent need for expanded healthcare capacity and innovation in treatment delivery (Source: Government of India health statistics).
Under the agreement, SMSIMSR and Healing Little Hearts will jointly organize pediatric cardiac screening camps, promote knowledge exchange between Indian and UK-based clinicians, and enhance treatment protocols to benefit children in underserved areas. The initiative reflects both organizations’ long-standing dedication to delivering free, high-quality healthcare.
Dr. Sanjiv Nichani, founder of Healing Little Hearts, expressed his admiration for the Indian institute’s mission and setting. “We are honoured to finalise the MoU with SMSIMSR in the presence of Sadguru,” Nichani said. “The tranquil atmosphere of Sathya Sai Grama is truly remarkable and holds immense healing potential. This partnership represents a commitment to saving countless young lives, ensuring they have the chance to thrive with good health. The warm hospitality here is exceptional, and we are eager to continue returning to support children battling Congenital Heart Disease.”
SMSIMSR is part of the Sri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission, a pioneering initiative that includes India’s first free private rural medical college and its associated chain of hospitals. The organization has been at the forefront of efforts to make healthcare a right rather than a privilege, especially for rural and economically disadvantaged populations.
The new partnership aims to bridge both geographic and economic gaps in healthcare. While India faces logistical challenges in delivering pediatric cardiac care across its vast population, the Healing Little Hearts Foundation brings decades of global expertise, having conducted similar missions across Africa and Asia.
At the heart of this collaboration lies a shared philosophy: that healthcare, especially for vulnerable children, should be free and universally accessible. “The joy of healing,” as described in the mission statement, “surpasses all other considerations.”
As global conversations around healthcare equity continue, partnerships like this one spotlight how cross-border cooperation can directly impact lives. By combining compassionate service with clinical excellence, SMSIMSR and Healing Little Hearts offer a hopeful model for a world where every child, regardless of birthplace or economic status, has a chance at a healthy life.
