From a modest beginning within the premises of Regional Hospital, Nahan, to becoming a major centre of medical education and healthcare in southern Himachal Pradesh, Dr YS Parmar Government Medical College has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Established in 2016, the institution has steadily expanded its academic infrastructure, strengthened patient care services and introduced advanced diagnostic and critical care facilities, emerging as a lifeline for thousands of people across Sirmaur district and adjoining regions.
As the medical college completes a decade of service, it stands as one of the state’s important healthcare institutions, balancing growing patient loads with ambitious expansion plans. In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, Sirmaur Correspondent Pankaj Sharma speaks to Principal Dr Sangeet Dhillon about the college’s journey from its humble beginnings, major achievements, challenges related to manpower and infrastructure and the vision that will shape its future growth.
Q. How do you assess the journey of the medical college since its establishment in 2016?
The college has undergone remarkable growth since its inception. Under the leadership of its founding Principal, Dr Jaishree Sharma, the institution began functioning from the Regional Hospital, Nahan, with limited faculty and staff. During the initial years, two lecture theatres and a library were established to support academic activities.
Over time, the college has consistently strengthened its academic foundation, healthcare services and patient care infrastructure. Today, it has emerged as a major institution catering not only to the healthcare needs of Sirmaur district but also to patients from adjoining areas.
Q. The institution serves patients from adjoining districts and neighbouring states as well. What major healthcare services and specialty facilities have been added in recent years?
Several important facilities have been introduced to improve healthcare delivery. These include a CT scan machine, an EEG laboratory, specialised Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) facilities, along with a new X-ray machine.
Earlier, the institution also established two operation theatres and an Amrit Pharmacy. These additions have significantly enhanced diagnostic, emergency and critical care services, enabling the college to provide more comprehensive treatment to patients.
Q. Faculty availability remains a challenge for many government medical colleges. What is the current status at your institution?
Like many government medical colleges across the country, we are currently facing a modest shortage of staff. However, our faculty members and healthcare personnel continue to work with dedication and commitment. Despite manpower constraints, we remain focused on maintaining high standards of patient care and medical education while ensuring that healthcare services are delivered efficiently.
Q. What major infrastructure projects and technological advancements have recently been introduced?
Infrastructure development has remained a priority since the college was established. A major milestone was achieved on March 1, 2019, when the foundation stone for the permanent medical college campus was laid. In 2020, the Microbiology Department laboratory was expanded and several critical facilities were introduced to strengthen healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. The addition of advanced diagnostic equipment and specialized critical care units has further enhanced the institution’s capabilities.
Q. What initiatives have been taken to enhance practical learning and academic excellence among students?
The institution places strong emphasis on practical learning and academic growth. From the establishment of lecture theatres and a library in the initial years to the continuous strengthening of academic activities, efforts have been directed towards creating a conducive learning environment.
Regular conferences, workshops and academic programmes are organised to promote professional development and knowledge enhancement among students as well as healthcare professionals.
Q. Research and innovation are becoming increasingly important in medical education. What steps have been taken to promote research culture?
We encourage faculty members and students to actively participate in conferences, academic discussions and professional development programmes.
Continuous learning and evidence-based medical practice form important components of our academic approach. These efforts contribute to strengthening both healthcare delivery and medical education while fostering a culture of academic engagement.
Q. How is the medical college contributing towards improving healthcare accessibility in remote areas of Sirmaur?
The institution serves a large population from across Sirmaur district, including people living in remote and rural regions. The introduction of advanced diagnostic facilities, specialized neonatal and paediatric intensive care services and strengthened emergency care infrastructure has significantly improved access to quality healthcare. Despite geographical challenges and manpower limitations, our healthcare teams continue to work tirelessly to serve patients from distant areas.
Q. How do you see modern technologies and advanced diagnostics shaping healthcare and medical education in the coming years?
Advanced diagnostics are already playing a vital role in improving patient outcomes. As healthcare technology continues to evolve, institutions like ours must adapt and embrace innovation. Modern technologies will enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve treatment efficiency and strengthen overall healthcare delivery. They will also play an important role in advancing medical education and training.
Q. As the institution approaches a decade of service, what is your vision for the next five years?
In line with the directions of the Himachal Pradesh Government, a suitable site has already been identified near Nahan for the expansion and development of the medical college’s new campus.
Our vision is to further strengthen healthcare infrastructure, expand patient care services, improve academic facilities and continue delivering quality healthcare to the people of Sirmaur. We are committed to developing the institution into an even stronger centre of medical education and healthcare excellence in Himachal Pradesh.
