Odisha Health Minister Unveils Ambitious Healthcare Reforms, Proposes Second AIIMS in Sambalpur

Bhubaneswar: To strengthen Odisha’s healthcare infrastructure, Health Minister Mukesh Mahalinga outlined a comprehensive plan during the Assembly session on Monday. The announcement reflects the government’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility, ensuring safety for medical professionals, and enhancing emergency services across the state.

Key among the announcements was the proposal to open a second All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Sambalpur. Mahalinga emphasized that discussions with the Central Government will soon take place to advance the project. “We are committed to ensuring quality healthcare for all, and opening a second AIIMS is a major step in that direction,” the Health Minister said.

In response to the recent incident at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, Mahalinga also addressed the safety of healthcare workers. He revealed that a task force, headed by the Chief Secretary, has been formed following a Supreme Court directive to ensure the security of working doctors. “Our government is resolute in its commitment to the safety of all medical professionals. Plans are in place to open a police outpost in each medical college to enhance security,” he stated.

As part of the government’s push for affordable healthcare, free dialysis services will soon be available at 55 health centers across the state. Additionally, Mahalinga announced a reduction in ambulance response time, with a target of decreasing the current 30-minute arrival time to just 20 minutes.

The state government has also launched the Veer Surendra Sai Divya Drishti programme, aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare to Odisha’s population. This program will work alongside a range of initiatives, including the establishment of new medical colleges in Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Koraput, Puri, and Jajpur, as well as new nursing colleges to address the shortage of healthcare professionals.

Odisha will also benefit from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, with 27,000 hospitals empanelled under the scheme. The government plans to set up Ayushmann Arogya Mandirs at all gram panchayat headquarters, providing yoga instructors and medical staff to promote holistic health practices.

Further advancements include the introduction of digital health services, enabling people to access medical consultations remotely. The state government will also recruit 300 doctors and paramedical staff to address shortages and ensure timely medical care for all.

Mahalinga also announced that the Odisha Health University will be fully operational soon, offering medical and engineering courses in the Odia language, a move that aims to boost local education and retain talent within the state.