Shimla, April 8 Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said on Wednesday that postgraduate seats will be increased in all medical colleges in the state to improve patient care.
The additional seats include 57 in Tanda (Kangra), 29 in Mandi, 32 in Nahan, 33 in Chamba, 67 in Hamirpur, and 96 in Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla, according to a statement.
Chairing a review meeting of the Medical Education Department, Sukhu directed officials to ensure effective healthcare services in all medical colleges.
Addressing the shortage of faculty, particularly in newer medical colleges and specialists in Tanda, Sukhu directed that the retirement age of professors be increased to 65 for the next three years. This decision will not affect promotions, he added.
Sukhu said the government is also designating assistant and associate professors, with a focus on strengthening all departments, especially diagnostic services.
All vacant nursing positions in medical colleges will be filled by November this year, and adequate technical staff will be appointed, the chief minister said.
He said the government is investing Rs 3,000 crore to procure modern machines and equipment for medical colleges and hospitals.
Sukhu said that Phase II of the Chamba Medical College will soon commence, with a budget of Rs 192 crore, while Rs 500 crore will be allocated for the construction of the Nahan Medical College.