CM Announces Priority Recruitment for Corona Warriors; Rs 1350 Crore Allocated for Medical Technology in Himachal.
Shimla:
In a significant move to revamp the health sector, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced that nurses who served during the COVID-19 pandemic—referred to as “Corona Warriors”—will be given priority in the ongoing recruitment drive. He emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system through technology and infrastructure upgrades.
The Chief Minister was addressing faculty members of IGMC Shimla and Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialty, Chamiyana, during an interaction held on Monday evening. The meeting focused on future challenges in the health sector and saw participation from department heads who made detailed presentations about their needs and ongoing initiatives.
CM Sukhu assured that the state government would provide all necessary assistance tailored to the requirements of each medical institution. He announced that within a year, all medical equipment over 20 years old in government hospitals will be replaced, ushering in a new era of modern medical care.
One of the key highlights of the address was the announcement of introducing robotic surgery facilities at Chamiyana Super Specialty Hospital and Tanda Medical College within the next two months. In addition, Three Tesla MRI machines are being installed in a phased manner across all medical colleges in the state.
Rs 1350 Crore for Technological Advancements
The state government is allocating a massive Rs 1350 crore towards upgrading medical technology, underlining the priority given to healthcare. “Previous governments did not focus on healthcare improvements, leading to several issues for patients. We are correcting that course,” said CM Sukhu.
Funds will also be allocated for the construction of hostels for medical students and the enhancement of parking facilities for both patients and healthcare staff.
Focus on Staffing and Standardization
To bridge the gaps in manpower, the Chief Minister said recruitment of doctors, paramedical staff, and technicians is being conducted on priority. Importantly, he reiterated that those nurses who served during the pandemic will be considered first for recruitment. “We are ensuring doctor-patient and nurse-patient ratios in line with international standards to create a better working environment,” he added.
Health Infrastructure Overhaul
The Chief Minister pointed out that many premium health institutions in the state have turned into referral centers due to neglect. To address this, the government has already spent Rs 100 crore on improving services at IGMC Shimla and plans to invest an additional Rs 200 crore in the near future.
Despite financial constraints stemming from the restoration of the old pension scheme, CM Sukhu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to elevating healthcare standards. “Patients come to hospitals hoping for recovery. A kind word from a doctor can go a long way in healing,” he remarked.
Support from Health Ministry
Health and Family Welfare Minister Colonel (Dr.) Dhani Ram Shandil praised the dialogue initiative, calling it a vital step in upgrading health services. He commended the medical professionals of the state for their dedication and reiterated the government’s resolve to provide state-of-the-art equipment across Himachal Pradesh.
Health Secretary M. Sudha Devi detailed ongoing reforms in the sector, while Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, MLA Harish Janartha, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.
