Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has renamed Dental College Shimla as Rajiv Gandhi Dental College and announced a ₹300-crore Dental Health Research Centre in Hamirpur.
Shimla Dental College Renamed After Rajiv Gandhi
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that Dental College Shimla will be renamed Rajiv Gandhi Dental College, Shimla, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare and dental education.
The announcement was made during the 4th Annual Conference of the Himachal Pradesh State Chapter of the Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India (AOMSI) held on July 18.
The Chief Minister also unveiled plans to establish a Dental Health Research Centre in Hamirpur with an estimated investment of ₹300 crore, aimed at advancing dental research, education and specialised healthcare services in the state.
₹300-Crore Dental Health Research Centre Planned in Hamirpur
According to the Chief Minister, the proposed Dental Health Research Centre will serve as a major hub for dental research, innovation and advanced treatment.
The facility is expected to generate employment opportunities while providing patients with access to modern dental care and specialised oral healthcare services within Himachal Pradesh.
The project forms part of the state’s broader strategy to improve medical infrastructure and strengthen healthcare institutions across the region.
Government Focuses on Modern Healthcare Infrastructure
Addressing the conference, Sukhu highlighted the vital role played by oral and maxillofacial surgeons, stating that their work extends beyond medical treatment by restoring patients’ confidence and improving their quality of life.
He said the state government has introduced significant reforms in the healthcare sector, adding that initiatives such as robotic surgery and 3-Tesla MRI technology in government hospitals—once considered difficult to achieve—have now become a reality.
The government is working to equip all medical colleges and district hospitals with advanced medical technologies and modern healthcare facilities to ensure high-quality and affordable treatment closer to people’s homes, reducing the need for patients to seek care outside the state.
Strengthening Dental Education and Services
The Chief Minister said the government has held extensive consultations with doctors across Himachal Pradesh and implemented several measures to improve the healthcare system.
A similar engagement programme with dental professionals is also being planned to strengthen dental colleges, modernise dental education and expand access to quality oral healthcare services.
The initiative is expected to enhance training facilities, improve academic standards and ensure patients receive advanced dental treatment within the state.
Part of Broader Healthcare Reforms
The renaming of the Shimla dental college and the proposed research centre underscore the government’s broader vision of expanding healthcare infrastructure and promoting medical education.
By investing in advanced technology, specialised research facilities and improved healthcare services, the state aims to build a stronger public health system capable of meeting future healthcare demands.
Key Takeaways
- Dental College Shimla has been renamed Rajiv Gandhi Dental College, Shimla.
- Himachal Pradesh will establish a ₹300-crore Dental Health Research Centre in Hamirpur.
- The research centre is expected to promote dental research, advanced treatment and employment generation.
- The government plans to strengthen dental colleges through consultations with dental professionals.
- Himachal Pradesh is expanding advanced healthcare facilities, including robotic surgery and modern diagnostic technologies.
FAQs
What is the new name of Dental College Shimla?
The institution has been renamed Rajiv Gandhi Dental College, Shimla.
Where will the new Dental Health Research Centre be established?
The proposed research centre will be set up in Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh.
How much will the Dental Health Research Centre cost?
The project is estimated to cost ₹300 crore.
What is the objective of the new research centre?
The centre aims to promote dental research, provide advanced treatment, generate employment and strengthen oral healthcare services across the state.
