Himachal Pradesh is undertaking a comprehensive modernization of its oral healthcare infrastructure through fresh capital investments and administrative reforms. The state administration has sanctioned an additional sum of Rs 18 crore to upgrade dental healthcare services across government medical centers. This financial grant comes on top of the Rs 5.10 crore previously released under the healthcare strengthening drive, taking the cumulative funds allocated for dental services to Rs 23.10 crore. The infusion of resources is intended to expand advanced diagnostics and therapeutic capabilities statewide.
Technological Upgrades for Rajiv Gandhi Government Dental College Shimla
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu outlined these healthcare developments during an interactive session with practicing dental surgeons. Reaffirming the state's focus on accessible, tech-driven healthcare, the government announced significant upgrades for Rajiv Gandhi Government Dental College located in Shimla. The institution is slated to receive advanced clinical equipment, including hi-tech dental chairs, CBCT diagnostic imaging units, intraoral scanners, and specialized operation theater tables. These additions will streamline clinical diagnostics and elevate the precision of surgical interventions. Furthermore, dedicated anesthesiologist support will be ensured at the facility to manage complex surgical procedures effectively.
Hamirpur Center of Excellence and Expansion at Chamiana
A flagship dental college and center of excellence is being established in Hamirpur at an estimated cost of around Rs 600 crore. Parallelly, authorities are evaluating the feasibility of constructing another new campus dedicated to dental education in Chamiana. In terms of professional development and academic structure, the state plans to implement a formal senior residency policy across dental colleges. Additionally, faculty members presently serving as lecturers will be elevated to the rank of assistant professor, creating structured promotional pathways and enhancing career progression for academic dental specialists.
Emergency Dental Care in Trauma Centers and Field Staff Deployment
To cater to dental emergencies and maxillofacial injuries without delay, dedicated dental chairs will be integrated into trauma care centers located across the state. In primary healthcare centers, community health centers, and district hospitals, multi-task workers will be stationed to assist dental surgeons in daily clinical workflows. The administration also committed to providing adequate paramedical staffing across rural and urban healthcare units to alleviate operational bottlenecks.
Non-Practicing Allowance Review and Official Engagement
Addressing core service demands raised by the medical fraternity, the administration noted that the issue of granting the Non-Practicing Allowance (NPA) to dental medical officers is under serious consideration. Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil extended appreciation to the Chief Minister for releasing the additional Rs 18 crore tranche for dental services. The high-level meeting was attended by Health Secretary Ashish Singhmar, Director of Health Services Dr. Gopal Beri, along with senior healthcare administrators.
