AIIMS-Bilaspur celebrated its third Foundation Day on Friday with Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda as the chief guest.
The event was attended by Union Minister Anurag Thakur, MP Harsh Mahajan, former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, and Himachal Pradesh Health Minister Col. Dr. Dhani Ram Shandil.
Addressing the gathering, Nadda highlighted the institute’s rapid progress since its establishment in 2022. He noted the commissioning of advanced facilities such as MRI, CT scanner, PET-CT, endoscopy, and bronchoscopy suites, and pointed out that patients from neighboring states are increasingly seeking treatment at AIIMS Bilaspur.
The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses.
“Earlier, people had to travel to PGI Chandigarh for high-end treatment. Today, AIIMS Bilaspur caters to the tertiary medical needs of the region,” he said, citing progress in nuclear medicine, cancer care, and renal transplants.
On medical education, Nadda said that 127 posts—including 29 faculty and 98 non-faculty positions—have been sanctioned, with multiple interview rounds scheduled over the coming year to fill them.
He also announced plans for a 500-bed Vishram Sadan for patients, Rs 165 crore for staff quarters and student hostels, and Rs 5 crore for an indoor stadium.
Nadda further underscored the importance of maintaining the AIIMS brand’s quality and fostering innovation.
He highlighted initiatives such as short-term exchange programs among AIIMS centers and the formation of a joint team with NITI Aayog and the Indian Institute of Public Administration to chart a roadmap for departmental growth and long-term sustainability.