Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], May 27 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu met with faculty members of IGMC Shimla and the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialty in Chamiyana on Monday evening to discuss future challenges in the health sector. According to an official release, CM Sukhu announced that priority will be given to nurses who served during the COVID-19 pandemic in upcoming nurse recruitment drives.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to filling various vacant posts in the health department while adopting modern technology. “The posts of doctors are being filled on a priority basis, and preference will be given to nurses who worked during the Corona epidemic,” said CM Sukhu. He added that recruitment is also underway for paramedical staff and technicians.
“We are ensuring doctor-patient and nurse-patient ratios that align with international standards so that healthcare workers can operate in a better work environment,” he stated.
Heads of departments from various medical colleges presented their views during the session, and the Chief Minister assured them of full support from the state government based on the needs of each institution.
Sukhu further stated that all machines and medical equipment older than 20 years in government health institutions would be replaced within a year. He also announced that robotic surgery facilities would commence within two months at Super Specialty Hospital Chamiyana and Tanda Medical College. Additionally, Three Tesla MRI machines will be installed in all medical colleges in a phased manner.
The Chief Minister criticized previous administrations for neglecting healthcare development, which he said had caused hardships for patients. He noted that the current government is focusing on the health and education sectors, with an allocation of ₹1,350 crore for medical technology upgrades.
To support medical students and staff, the government will also fund the construction of hostels and enhance parking facilities. He remarked that premier health institutions in the state have turned into mere referral centers, necessitating comprehensive reforms. An additional ₹200 crore will be allocated to improve IGMC Shimla, on top of the ₹100 crore already spent.
Despite financial constraints due to the reinstatement of the old pension scheme, CM Sukhu reaffirmed the government’s dedication to enhancing healthcare services. “Patients visit hospitals with the hope of recovery. If doctors communicate compassionately, it can significantly ease their suffering,” he added.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Colonel (Dr) Dhani Ram Shandil stressed the importance of such dialogues for improving health services. He praised the medical professionals working across the state and urged continued efforts to elevate healthcare standards.
Health Secretary M Sudha Devi provided detailed updates on the reforms underway in the health sector. Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, MLA Harish Janartha, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.
(ANI)
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