India is set to launch its first Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) in Uttarakhand, as announced by Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

• The HEMS will be stationed at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rishikesh and will be able to airlift accident victims within a radius of 150 km to the medical facility.
• The HEMS is part of the government's initiative to expand medical outreach and trauma care services using helicopters.
• This service aims to provide timely transportation for accident victims and patients from hilly terrains to AIIMS, ensuring they receive critical care during the 'golden hour' after an accident.