Budget proposal for air ambulance shelved for now

While the state government had announced encouragement for private emergency air ambulance services in the 2022-23 budget, the programme has been shelved for now.

Air ambulances — especially helicopter services — are expected to help road accident victims and other critical patients from rural areas who may not get timely help otherwise. It can also ensure quick organ transport for transplants.

After the budget announcement, the government held discussions with the private air ambulance company International Critical-Care Air Transfer Team (ICATT), who then submitted a proposal to the Health Department. As per the company’s proposal, it would train personnel, provide technology and run the operations;