In a major push toward modernizing healthcare in Himachal Pradesh, CM Sukhu has directed the Health Department to begin the recruitment process for specialist robotic surgeons. These experts will lead the rollout of robotic surgery services in government hospitals across the State, significantly boosting access to high-end medical care.
During a Health Department review meeting on Friday evening, the CM announced that a proposal outlining recruitment rules for robotic surgeons will soon be placed before the State Cabinet. Apart from conducting surgeries, the newly recruited surgeons will also train doctors in robotic procedures, strengthening the State’s long-term healthcare capabilities.
The CM highlighted that the Atal Institute of Medical Super-Specialty, Chamiyana, is being developed to offer healthcare services on par with AIIMS Delhi, with robotic surgeries expected to commence soon. Similar systems will be installed at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, while Hamirpur Medical College and IGMC Shimla are also slated for future upgrades.
To support the expansion of services, the Chief Minister emphasized the urgent need to fill vacancies in the health sector. The Directorate of Medical Education will recruit 100 new medical officers, and 50 additional nurses will be appointed at Chamiyana. The ongoing recruitment drive also includes paramedical staff, technicians, and support personnel.
In a major step toward improving workforce conditions, the State Government has increased the monthly honorarium for Operation Theatre Assistants from ₹17,820 to ₹25,000, and for radiographers and X-ray technicians from ₹13,100 to ₹25,000.
Addressing the gap in healthcare education, the CM announced a 23-year-first increase in seat capacity for paramedical courses. At IGMC Shimla and Tanda Medical College, seats for B.Sc. Medical Lab Technology, Radiology & Imaging, and Anesthesia & OT Technology courses have been raised to 50 each, offering more local students professional training opportunities within the State.
The meeting was attended by Health Minister Col. (Dr.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Health Secretary M. Sudha Devi, Special Secretary Dr. Ashwini Kumar Sharma, and other senior officials.
