The World Bank on Friday (October 24, 2025) announced that it has approved a $280 million (over $2,450 million) loan for a health system program in Kerala to improve the life expectancy and quality of life of 11 million elderly and vulnerable people.
The program aims to treat and support more than 90% of patients registered for hypertension and diabetes in Kerala through individual electronic monitoring mechanisms. It will also introduce a home care model for bedridden, bedridden and vulnerable seniors to provide comprehensive health services.
The $280 million Kerala Health System Improvement Program will build a more comprehensive health system resilient to climate shocks. It will also strengthen Kerala’s digital health systems through enhanced eHealth services, integrated data platforms and enhanced cyber security.
“The program will deliver a 40% increase in patients with hypertension under control and a 60% increase in cervical and breast cancer screening among women to accelerate efforts to end preventable deaths,” said Paul Procee, World Bank’s Acting Country Director for India.
The program will work with local government bodies such as grama panchayats and municipal corporations, adopt standard protocols and procedures for antibiotic use, and address outbreaks of zoonotic diseases by fast-tracking reliable laboratory information for patients.
Primary health facilities in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kasaragod, Palakkad and Alappuzha districts will also adopt climate-focused solutions to improve energy efficiency and manage extreme heat and floods.
The loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) has a final maturity of 25 years with a grace period of five years, the World Bank said.
Published – 24 Oct 2025 20:53 IST
