Shimla: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to bringing a comprehensive “Vyavastha Parivartan” (systemic transformation) in Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare sector, announcing a series of landmark, people-centric initiatives aimed at strengthening medical infrastructure and improving patient care.
Marking a major step toward elder-friendly healthcare, the Chief Minister announced the launch of dedicated Senior Citizen Outpatient Departments (OPDs) across major hospitals in the State. These exclusive consultation slots for citizens above 70 years of age are now operational, ensuring hassle-free and queue-free medical services for the elderly.
In a significant boost to specialized healthcare, the government approved an allocation of ₹5 crore each for five premier medical institutions—Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla, and medical colleges at Tanda, Hamirpur, Ner Chowk, and Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties (AIMSS) Chamiyana—for the establishment of Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) infrastructure. Additionally, ₹75 crore has been sanctioned for setting up AI-enabled smart diagnostic laboratories at IGMC Shimla and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, aimed at drastically reducing diagnostic waiting periods through automation.
Addressing the healthcare needs of children, the Chief Minister said that work is underway on an Advanced Pediatric Centre at AIMSS Chamiyana, which will offer world-class child healthcare services within the State. He also highlighted the successful execution of a massive Pulse Polio Campaign starting December 21, including extensive door-to-door mop-up operations to ensure 100 percent immunization coverage.
Emphasizing the State’s shift towards advanced medical technology, CM Sukhu stated that an unprecedented investment of nearly ₹3,000 crore in the health sector is being made to ensure that residents no longer need to travel outside Himachal Pradesh for advanced treatments. He noted that robotic surgery has already been operationalized at AIMSS Chamiyana and Tanda Medical College, marking a historic milestone for the State’s public healthcare system.
The Chief Minister further informed that plans are in place to expand robotic surgical facilities to all medical colleges across Himachal Pradesh by early 2026, positioning the State as an emerging hub of medical excellence.
Reiterating the government’s vision, CM Sukhu said the objective is to provide dignified, accessible, and high-quality healthcare to every citizen, from remote mountainous regions to urban centers. He added that the integration of AI diagnostics, specialized geriatric services, and modern medical infrastructure reflects the administration’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable and building a resilient healthcare system.
“These reforms signify Himachal Pradesh’s transition into a model Health State, where advanced technology and compassionate care work together for the welfare of the people,” the Chief Minister asserted.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
