Dr K Madan Gopal is a seasoned public health professional with over 30 years of transformative experience in health sector reforms and strengthening health systems across India. An MBBS and MD (Preventive and Social Medicine), he has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and programs that have enhanced healthcare delivery, particularly for underserved populations.
Dr. Gopal’s extensive career includes spearheading health sector reforms and health system strengthening in Chhattisgarh (2002–2011), where he led critical initiatives for institutional capacity building, workforce training, and strengthening primary and secondary healthcare delivery. His efforts laid the foundation for innovative programs that improved public health governance and outcomes at the state level.
As Senior Consultant (Health) at NITI Aayog, Dr Gopal played a pivotal role in creating and advancing the State Health Index, spearheading its development for five editions to drive competitive federalism and improve health system performance across states.
He also successfully implemented the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), one of the world’s largest health insurance schemes, earning him the National Award for Outstanding Achievement, and pioneered the CSR-driven Employer-Led Model for healthcare initiatives targeting vulnerable populations.
In addition, Dr. Gopal contributed significantly to flagship initiatives, including the Aspirational District Program (ADP), district hospital rankings, National Digital Health Mission (NDHM), and Ayushman Bharat PMJAY, while advancing policies for medical devices, senior care, and urban health strategies. He has been instrumental in driving medical education reforms, including the rollout of DNB programs and expanding medical seats to strengthen specialist availability.
Currently serving as Advisor - Public Health Administration at NHSRC, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Dr Gopal leads state-level health governance reforms, capacity building, and evidence-based policymaking. Known for his humility, collaborative leadership, and strategic insight, he remains a key architect of India’s evolving healthcare landscape.
