In a major leap for Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare sector, the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialities (AIMSS) in Chamiyana, Shimla, has become the first medical institution in the state to introduce robotic surgery. This development aligns with Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s vision of delivering world-class healthcare to the people of the region.
Dr. Brij Lal, Principal of AIMSS, announced the milestone on Friday, highlighting that the institute is on track to begin robotic-assisted surgeries soon. A state-of-the-art surgical robot, similar to the systems used at AIIMS Delhi, has been procured at a cost of ₹28 crore. Installation is expected to be completed by July, after which robotic procedures will commence.
Dr. Lal explained that robotic surgery offers numerous benefits to both patients and surgeons. The procedures involve minimal incisions, resulting in reduced blood loss, less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. For surgeons, the robotic system offers enhanced precision, greater control, and a high-definition, magnified 3D view of complex anatomical areas. The technology also helps reduce fatigue during long surgeries, enabling more procedures to be conducted efficiently with improved outcomes.
A government spokesperson added that robotic surgery systems will also be deployed in a phased rollout to other major government medical institutions in the state. The next installations are planned for Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda, followed by Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla, Medical College Hamirpur, and other facilities.
“This initiative is poised to benefit thousands of patients across Himachal Pradesh by eliminating the need to travel outside the state for advanced surgical care,” the spokesperson said. “The introduction of robotic surgery marks a historic advancement in the state’s medical landscape.”
With this technological upgrade, Himachal Pradesh is taking a significant step toward enhancing access to high-end, minimally invasive surgical care, setting a benchmark for healthcare innovation in the region.