Subhechcha Ganguly 
Dr. Madhabananda Kar, renowned for his extensive expertise in Surgical Oncology, assumed the helm as Director of the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Mangalagiri, on January 24, 2024. With a distinguished career spanning years of dedication and service, Dr. Kar brings a wealth of experience garnered from his tenure at various renowned medical institutions both domestically and abroad.
Prior to his current appointment, Dr. Kar held notable positions such as Professor and Executive Director at AIIMS, Jodhpur, and AIIMS, Darbhanga. His contributions to the field of Surgical Oncology are exemplified by his role as Professor on deputation at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, where he significantly impacted patient care, education, and research.
Dr. Kar’s ascendancy to the directorship of AIIMS, Mangalagiri, not only underscores his personal achievements but also signifies a strategic move towards enhancing the institution’s stature and capabilities in medical research, education, and healthcare delivery. His visionary leadership and vast reservoir of knowledge are poised to propel AIIMS, Mangalagiri, to new heights of excellence in the field of medical sciences.
The journey of AIIMS, Mangalagiri, an institution which Dr Kar helms presently, is worth noting.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently marked a significant milestone in India’s healthcare infrastructure by inaugurating AIIMS Mangalagiri in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, along with four other AIIMS hospitals across different states. His address during the inauguration, delivered online, underscored the commendable efforts of the management, faculty, and students, emphasizing the dedication of AIIMS Mangalagiri to the nation. In doing so, he not only acknowledged the tangible progress in healthcare infrastructure but also provided insight into the historical context, noting the remarkable acceleration in development compared to previous decades.
Highlighting the transformative impact, Prime Minister Modi reflected on the evolution of healthcare facilities in India, noting that five decades after Independence, there was only one AIIMS in the country, situated in Delhi. However, with the inauguration of seven new AIIMS and the laying of foundation stones for others, he signaled a paradigm shift, indicating a rapid pace of development unparalleled in the preceding six decades.
The establishment of AIIMS Mangalagiri, constructed at a cost of Rs.1618.23 crore across 183.11 acres, signifies a substantial investment in enhancing healthcare accessibility. Boasting 960 beds, 41 departments, 13 specialties, and a 125-seat Medical College, the facility aims to address regional disparities in tertiary-level healthcare and bolster medical education and training. Under the ambit of the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojna (PMSSY), AIIMS Mangalagiri aligns with the broader goal of achieving self-sufficiency in medical education and addressing healthcare disparities nationwide.
AIIMS, conceived as a cornerstone for fostering excellence in healthcare delivery and education across India, operates as a group of autonomous public medical institutes of national importance. AIIMS Mangalagiri’s integration into this network exemplifies the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and education, particularly in underserved areas.
AIIMS Mangalagiri’s inclusion in the AIIMS network not only brings world-class healthcare services to the people of Andhra Pradesh but also provides a platform for medical education and research in the region. By expanding access to specialized medical care and training, AIIMS Mangalagiri plays a crucial role in addressing the healthcare disparities that exist in underserved areas. This move underscores the government’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and ensuring that all citizens have access to high-quality medical services. With AIIMS Mangalagiri as part of this prestigious network, the future of healthcare in India looks brighter and more inclusive.
The journey of AIIMS Mangalagiri, from its initial operations in a temporary campus to its current state-of-the-art facility, underscores resilience and adaptability, particularly evidenced during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Initiatives like eParamarsh for doorstep sample collection and the gradual expansion of in-patient services reflect a proactive approach to healthcare delivery amidst adversity.
The dedication and commitment of the staff at AIIMS Mangalagiri have been instrumental in navigating through these unprecedented times. The implementation of telemedicine services and virtual consultations have ensured continuity of care for patients, while strict safety protocols have been put in place to protect both patients and healthcare workers.
Furthermore, the research conducted at AIIMS Mangalagiri has played a crucial role in understanding the virus and developing effective treatment strategies. Collaborations with other institutions and organizations have also been key in sharing knowledge and resources to combat the pandemic.
Peering into the future, AIIMS Mangalagiri’s mission embodies the trifecta of education, research, and patient care at the pinnacle of excellence. Utilizing cutting-edge teaching techniques, the institute strives to establish a gold standard in medical education while nurturing brilliance in biomedical research. Moreover, by delivering holistic patient care, AIIMS Mangalagiri aims to reach its goal of attaining self-reliance in postgraduate medical education, thereby making a substantial impact on India’s healthcare sector. In a nutshell, AIIMS Mangalagiri is on a mission to revolutionize the medical field with a dash of flair and finesse.
