PGI Chandigarh Plans Big Healthcare Projects, Boosts Emergency Care

The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research is set to significantly strengthen its healthcare infrastructure with the launch of multiple advanced facilities during its 39th convocation on April 30 . The upcoming projects include an advanced neurosciences centre , a maternal and child health centre , and a state-of-the-art critical care block , alongside a medical museum a first-of-its-kind initiative at the institute and Phase II expansion of key departments.

Director Vivek Lal stated that these developments aim to enhance both service delivery and patient outcomes , reinforcing PGIMER’s position as one of India’s most trusted public healthcare institutions. A dedicated Cardiac Emergency facility has already been operationalised, enabling faster and specialised treatment for heart attack patients without delays typically associated with general emergency routing.

The convocation ceremony will be attended by Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda as the chief guest, while Vinod K. Paul will serve as the guest of honour. Around 550 students are expected to receive their degrees, marking another milestone in PGIMER’s long-standing commitment to producing highly skilled medical professionals dedicated to compassionate care.

Established in 1962 and designated an Institute of National Importance in 1967 , PGIMER has evolved into a cornerstone of India’s healthcare ecosystem. Based in Chandigarh, the institute is widely recognised for its advanced medical education, cutting-edge research, and large-scale patient care . Its alumni occupy influential positions across the globe, reflecting its strong academic legacy.

Handling an enormous patient load of nearly 40 lakh individuals annually , PGIMER continues to deliver equitable and affordable healthcare . The institute has been instrumental in implementing the Ayushman Bharat programme, offering high-cost procedures such as renal transplants at a fraction of private-sector costs, often making life-saving treatments accessible to economically weaker sections.

In recent years, PGIMER has also focused on improving accessibility and efficiency through digital transformation , including 24×7 online registration and streamlined hospital processes. The expansion of AMRIT pharmacies , from four to fourteen within the campus, has further ensured the availability of affordable medicines to patients.

Adding a human touch to its clinical excellence, the institute’s SARATHI initiative a volunteer-driven support system has grown beyond PGIMER to nearly 500 institutions nationwide , helping patients and their families navigate hospital systems with empathy and care.

With a blend of infrastructure expansion, technological adoption, and patient-centric initiatives , PGIMER continues to reinforce its reputation as a leader in public healthcare, medical education, and research in India .