Overview of AIIMS Hospitals in India
India has a robust healthcare system with numerous public and private hospitals, with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) standing out as some of the leading medical institutions. Established in 1956, the first AIIMS was inaugurated in New Delhi, setting the stage for a network of specialized healthcare providers across the country. The rule governing the establishment of AIIMS and the number of hospitals in each state is a topic of interest for medical professionals, policymakers, and the public alike.
Historical Context: The First AIIMS
The history of AIIMS dates back to 1956 when the first institute was set up in New Delhi. This was a pivotal moment in India's healthcare landscape. Over the decades, the governance and funding of AIIMS have evolved, with significant developments occurring under the Prime Minister's schemes.
PMSSY and New AIIMS Hospitals
One of the significant milestones in expanding the reach of AIIMS was the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) announced in 2003. Under this scheme, new hospitals with modern facilities like those at AIIMS in Delhi were to be established in backward states. The first phase of the PMSSY scheme included six new AIIMS in Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Jodhpur, Patna, Raipur, and Rishikesh. A notable addition came in 2009 when AIIMS Raebareli was approved under the second phase of PMSSY.
Expansion under Modi’s Premiership
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the number of AIIMS sanctioned further increased. During his premiership, 15 more AIIMS were sanctioned, bringing the total number to 32 as of 2023. This expansion aimed to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly in underserved regions of India.
Regulations and State-wise Distribution
The establishment of AIIMS is governed under a central scheme. One key question that frequently arises is whether a state can have more than one AIIMS. The answer to this lies in the specific requirements and guidelines set by the government. For example, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, which has a large population, two AIIMS were sanctioned—one at Raebareli and another at Gorakhpur. This indicates that there is no explicit bar across the country to having multiple AIIMS in a single state, provided that the criteria for establishing such institutions are met.
Current Status and Future Prospects
As of the latest data available in 2023, the total number of AIIMS in India stands at 32. These institutions continue to play a vital role in providing specialized medical care, conducting research, and training future healthcare professionals. With the ongoing efforts to expand the network, it is expected that the number of AIIMS will continue to grow, catering to the evolving needs of the Indian population.
Conclusion
The presence of AIIMS in each state of India is determined by the government's healthcare policies and the specific needs of the region. The regulatory framework allows for multiple AIIMS in a single state, provided they meet the stringent standards set by the central government. As the healthcare sector continues to grow, the role of AIIMS in providing top-notch medical services will remain crucial.