Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony
Foundation Stone-Laying Ceremony Held for New Cancer and Cardiac Speciality Hospital at Vatrak Hospital
Smart Village Movement, February 24, 2025
In a momentous step towards transforming healthcare in Gujarat’s Aravalli district, the stone-laying ceremony for a world-class Cancer and Cardiac Specialty Hospital was held at the historic Vatrak Hospital. The event was graced by Dr. Anil Shah, Chairman of the Smart Village Movement (SVM) and a key contributor to the upcoming hospital, alongside distinguished dignitaries, including Smt. Preeti Anil Shah, Shri Deepak Chandar, and Smt. Dr. Sujata Shah, Chairperson of Shri K. K. Shah Sabarkantha Arogya Mandal. Trustees, leaders, doctors, hospital staff, and community members were also present at the occasion.
Vatrak Hospital, a 60-year-old institution serving millions, was originally established through the visionary efforts of Shri K. K. Shah, a respected leader, philanthropist, and former minister in Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s government. With generous support from Maharaja Shrimant Fatehsinhrao Gaekwad, the hospital has provided affordable and accessible healthcare to the people of the region. Now, with the addition of state-of-the-art cancer and cardiac care facilities, the hospital is set to usher in a new era of medical excellence.
SVM Executive Chairman, Dr. Anil Shah and SVM Director of Operations, Deepak Chandar participating in hospital’s Bhoomi Puja
A Commitment to Advanced Healthcare
During the ceremony, Dr. Anil Shah emphasized the importance of bringing specialized healthcare services closer to rural communities. He stated,
“With these hospitals, we are ensuring that no patient in Aravalli has to travel long distances for cancer or heart treatment. This is our commitment—to make world-class healthcare accessible to all, regardless of financial status.”
The new hospitals will be equipped with cutting-edge oncology and cardiac care technology, ensuring that patients receive early diagnosis, advanced treatments, and high-quality medical care without the burden of long-distance travel and financial hardship.
SVM Team and Guests During discussion for Cancer and Cardiac Hospital
Smart Village Movement’s Commitment to Education
Apart from healthcare, Dr. Shah also introduced Smart Village Movement’s (SVM) STEM Lab initiative, emphasizing the need for quality education and digital empowerment in rural schools.
He announced that SVM, which has already established 12 STEM Labs in schools across Gujarat, will now introduce three new STEM Labs in schools of the Aravalli district. These labs will provide students with hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), fostering innovation and future-ready skills.
A Historic Milestone for Aravalli
The event was attended by local leaders, medical professionals, educators, and community members, all of whom expressed enthusiasm and optimism for the future of healthcare and education in the region. The construction of these hospitals is expected to be completed in the coming years, with the goal of serving thousands of patients annually.
As the foundation stones were laid, a new chapter in the legacy of Vatrak Hospital began—one of progress, compassion, and a brighter future for the people of Aravalli and beyond.