Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today chaired a review meeting of the Medical Education Department and directed officials to ensure effective healthcare services across all medical colleges in the state. He emphasized that the state government is continuously working to improve healthcare facilities so that residents can access quality treatment within Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister announced that postgraduate (PG) seats are being expanded in all medical colleges. The additional seats include 57 at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, 29 in Mandi, 32 in Nahan, 33 in Chamba, 67 in Hamirpur, and 96 at Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla. He stated that this expansion will enhance institutional functioning and lead to improved patient care.
Addressing faculty shortages, particularly in newer medical colleges and super-specialist positions at Tanda Medical College, the Chief Minister directed that the retirement age of professors be extended to 65 years for the next three years. He clarified that this would not affect promotions. To further strengthen staff, Assistant and Associate Professors will also be designated as needed. Strengthening all departments, especially diagnostic services, remains a key priority of the government.
All vacant nursing positions in medical colleges will be filled by November this year, and sufficient technical staff will also be appointed to meet requirements. The Chief Minister highlighted that the state government is investing around Rs. 3,000 crore in modern machines and equipment for medical colleges and hospitals, and efforts are ongoing to address staff shortages across healthcare institutions.
CM Sukhu also stressed that improving the health and education sectors is a top priority, assuring that funds are not a constraint and that healthcare services will see significant improvements in the coming years. He highlighted plans to promote health tourism in the state.
Additionally, Phase II construction of Chamba Medical College will soon commence with a provision of Rs. 192 crore, while Rs. 500 crore has been allocated for the construction of Nahan Medical College.
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