Himachal CM Sukhu Announces Advanced Medical Equipment for Colleges

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced an ambitious plan to equip all medical colleges in Himachal Pradesh with world-class medical technology within the next eight months. This commitment was made during the launch of the state-level HPV vaccination campaign aimed at combating cervical cancer at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC).

As part of the initiative, approximately 65,000 girls aged 14 will receive the HPV vaccine within the next 90 days. Sukhu emphasized the importance of collaboration among parents, community leaders, and health workers to ensure the campaign’s success. He urged for enhanced public awareness regarding the prevention of cervical cancer, a significant health concern in the state.

Over the next three years, the Himachal Pradesh government plans to enhance healthcare facilities across the state. The CM stated that modern healthcare services, similar to those at AIIMS, will be established in zonal hospitals, model health institutions, Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs). The initiative will see an investment of around Rs 3,000 crore in advanced medical equipment and machinery.

Sukhu also expressed concern regarding the rising cancer rates in Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing this issue. To improve cancer care, a state-of-the-art cancer hospital will be constructed in Hamirpur at a cost of Rs 300 crore. This facility aims to provide affordable and accessible treatment to residents.

In terms of technological advancements, the CM noted that robotic surgery facilities are set to be established in all five medical colleges in the state. Following the successful launch of robotic surgery services at AIIMS and Tanda Medical College, IGMC is scheduled to introduce this cutting-edge technology on March 10, 2024.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dhani Ram Shandil reiterated that the CM is prioritizing improvements in both the health and education sectors. He stated that the substantial investment in advanced medical technology is a transformative step that will be remembered by future generations.

With these developments, the Himachal Pradesh government aims not only to enhance local healthcare services but also to promote health tourism over the next five years. This initiative is expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including patients, healthcare professionals, and technicians across the sector.