In 1991, Mumbai-based non-governmental organization Impact India Foundation started the service to take hospital services and medical aid to the people, especially those living in far-flung areas of rural India, who remain untouched or poorly serviced by healthcare facilities.
Lifeline Express has treated about 1.2 million people since its launch in 1991 by the non-profit Impact India Foundation.
While the hospital train started off providing treatment primarily for cataracts, cleft lips, and Polio, it began providing plastic surgeries, dental surgeries, epilepsy services, burn contractures, cancer treatment, and curative services for people suffering from various kinds of disabilities.