Overview
On October 23, 2026, a joint initiative between Parul University Goa and the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), Goa, culminated in the inauguration of physiotherapy and rehabilitation centres across three major public healthcare facilities in the state. The oath‑taking ceremony was held in the auditorium of South Goa District Hospital, Margao, and marked a concerted effort to strengthen rehabilitation services, improve access to physiotherapy care, and broaden healthcare support for Goan communities.
Facilities Launched
The newly inaugurated centres are located at:
- South Goa District Hospital, Margao
- Primary Health Center, Balli
- Community Health Center, Canacona
These centres integrate physiotherapy and rehabilitation services into existing public health infrastructure, aiming to bring care closer to patients, especially those recovering from injuries or facing mobility challenges, thereby enhancing functional independence and quality of life.
Participants and Leadership
The event was attended by senior officials including Dr. Devanshu Patel, Director of Parul Education Foundation; Shri Yatindra M. Maralkar, Secretary of Health, Government of Goa; Dr. Saleena Naik, Director of Health Services, Goa; Dr. Sandesh Madkaikar, Chief Medical Officer, Directorate of Health Services; Dr. Kedar Raikar, Medical Officer in Charge, PHC Khorlim; Dr. Rajendra Borkar, Medical Superintendent, South Goa District Hospital; Dr. Lalit Lata Jha, Vice Chancellor, Parul University Goa; Dr. Rajnanda Dessai, Officer on Special Duty; Ms. Frazella De Araujo and Dr. Geeta Deshmukh, Advisors to the Health Minister; Dr. Jose Tavares, Health Officer, CHC Canacona; Dr. Benedita Dias, Health Officer, PHC Balli; Ajay Yadav, Director, General Administration, Parul University Goa; and academic leaders such as Dr. Aseem Yadav (Dean, Parul College of Physiotherapy), Dr. Anupam Kumar (Dean, Parul College of Applied and Health Sciences), and Dr. Jeyalakshmi K (Dean, Parul College of Nursing).
Student Involvement
More than 350 students from Parul University Goa, representing the faculties of Nursing, Physiotherapy, and Applied and Health Sciences, participated in the inauguration. Through the oath, they pledged to reflect their commitment in everyday conduct, professional decisions, and interactions with patients. Student testimonials highlighted the experiential learning gained: First‑year physiotherapy student Saanvi Maralkar noted the importance of bringing healthcare services to those in need, while fellow student Shivraj Kodalkar emphasized the broader perspective gained on public healthcare delivery and the role of future professionals in ensuring quality care accessibility.
Significance
The partnership underscores a joint commitment to bridge academic expertise with practical healthcare delivery, creating a platform for future healthcare professionals to serve society. By embedding physiotherapy clinics within district, primary, and community health settings, the initiative seeks to make rehabilitation more accessible statewide and reinforce the role of physiotherapy in holistic patient care.