Himachal Pradesh has made history by becoming the first Indian state to launch robotic surgery facilities in three government hospitals simultaneously. This significant advancement in healthcare was announced on July 17 by Naresh Chauhan, Principal Media Advisor to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, during a press conference in Shimla.

According to Chauhan, the introduction of robotic surgery aims to offer high-quality treatment options within the state, thereby reducing the need for residents to seek services at private hospitals outside Himachal Pradesh. The new facilities have been installed at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, Atal Institute of Medical Super Speciality (AIMSS) in Chamiyana, and Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda.

The robotic surgery technology is expected to enhance accuracy in surgical procedures, decrease hospital stays for patients, and promote quicker recovery times, according to state officials.

Expansion of Diagnostic Services

In addition to robotic surgery, the government has taken measures to improve diagnostic services across the region. A PET-CT scanner has been installed at IGMC Shimla, with plans for another PET scanner in the near future. The hospital has also begun using a 3-Tesla MRI system, which is among the most sophisticated imaging technologies globally.

Chauhan mentioned that, to further broaden diagnostic capabilities, the state has approved the installation of 1.5-Tesla MRI machines in eight hospitals. Moreover, digital mammography units will be established in Hamirpur, Bilaspur, Solan, and Dharamshala, along with 42 portable digital X-ray machines across various healthcare institutions in Himachal Pradesh.

High-end 256-slice CT scan machines will be introduced at several medical colleges, including Chamiyana, Tanda, Ner Chowk, and Hamirpur. Additional ultrasound equipment is also being procured to enhance diagnostic services.

Advancements in Medical Education

Chauhan highlighted the government’s reforms in medical education, noting the separation of the Medical Education Department from the Health Department to improve administration. Currently, Himachal Pradesh has five government medical colleges, producing 500 to 600 doctors each year. Ongoing infrastructure development across these institutions, particularly in Hamirpur, is also a priority.

Recently, the state has approved 383 new postgraduate (PG) medical seats in government medical colleges, presenting additional opportunities for newly graduated doctors to specialise within the state. Furthermore, 2,432 positions have been filled within the Medical Education Department, covering roles such as senior residents, tutors, professors, and staff nursing personnel.

The government is also offering increased financial incentives to attract and retain medical professionals. Enhanced stipends and remuneration for resident doctors and super-specialists have been implemented, with further support through a Rs 1,700-crore JICA-supported healthcare project aimed at upgrading health facilities across the state.

In response to challenges regarding the integration of Kamla Nehru Hospital with IGMC and facilities at AIMSS Chamiyana, Chauhan acknowledged temporary difficulties, asserting that these would be addressed promptly. He also mentioned the release of Rs 212 crore for pending medical reimbursements and the restructuring of the Himcare scheme to ensure transparency in health insurance coverage.

By enhancing health insurance coverage from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, the state aims to ensure that low-income patients receive necessary treatment. The current government is focused on advancing healthcare services within Himachal Pradesh, providing residents the option of receiving specialised medical care without the need for travel to other states.

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