Lucknow: Union minister and newly-elected UP BJP chief Pankaj Chaudhary on Saturday pitched for granting Institute of National Importance (INI) status to KGMU, saying it would significantly benefit patients by strengthening advanced treatment, research and superspecialty care.
Speaking at the university’s convocation, he urged Union health minister JP Nadda to support the proposal since KGMU has emerged as a major referral centre for Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states. “With better national rankings, strong academic standards and heavy patient load, KGMU meets all the criteria required for INI status,” he said.
Chaudhary said it was a matter of pride for students to be part of such a historic institution and expressed confidence that the graduating doctors would uphold and enhance its reputation.
The minister urged students to remain grounded, ethical and committed to society and the nation
Meanwhile, deputy CM Brajesh Pathak said that UP has made rapid progress in healthcare in recent years. Nearly 90% of electricity used in hospitals now comes from solar energy. Health and Wellness Centres have been opened for every 5,000 population, while dialysis, CT scan and ICU facilities are now available in most districts, he said.
He said 2.5 to 3 lakh patients visit OPDs daily across the state, with 10,000 to 12,000 patients receiving emergency care every day. “Around 8,000 to 9,000 free surgeries are performed daily, and over two lakh patients are treated every Sunday during Jan Arogya Melas. Teleconsultations are also being provided through the eSanjeevani platform at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs,” Pathak said.
Vice-chancellor Prof Soniya Nityanand said KGMU has started new facilities in the gynaecologic oncology and infectious diseases departments, along with new courses, added DM and MCh seats, advanced facilities, and projects worth Rs 941 crore.
