TNR News Network
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh has entered a new era in healthcare with the introduction of robotic surgery at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialities in Chamiyana (Shimla), making it the first government facility in the state to offer this cutting-edge medical technology.
The landmark initiative is part of the Himachal Pradesh government’s vision to provide world-class medical services to people within the state and reduce dependency on hospitals in metro cities. A state-of-the-art surgical robot, procured at a cost of Rs 28 crore, similar to those used in AIIMS-Delhi, has arrived at the institute and will be fully operational by July.
Dr Brij Lal, Principal of the Atal Institute, said that robotic surgery will significantly improve outcomes for both patients and doctors. “Robotic procedures require only small incisions, resulting in less blood loss, reduced need for transfusions, faster recovery and shorter hospital stays,” he explained.
For surgeons, the advanced system offers enhanced precision, flexibility and control. The robotic arms allow for minimally invasive procedures even in hard-to-reach areas of the body and the 3D high-definition visualisation dramatically lowers the risk of complications. It also reduces physical fatigue during long surgeries, enabling doctors to perform more operations efficiently.
Expansion to other government medical colleges
Following Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s directive, robotic surgery facilities will next be established at Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, with plans to extend the technology to IGMC-Shimla, Hamirpur Medical College and a few other government hospitals in a phased manner.
“This is a transformative step for Himachal’s healthcare sector,” an official from the state health department noted. “Thousands of patients will benefit as they no longer need to travel outside the state for advanced surgeries.”
Milestone for Himachal’s health sector
The launch of robotic surgery in Himachal marks a historic milestone, bringing the state’s medical infrastructure closer to national and global standards. Officials have credited the achievement to the farsighted leadership and commitment of Chief Minister Sukhu, under whose guidance the state is actively upgrading its health institutions with modern equipment, skilled manpower, and patient-centric services.
