Shrine Board’s Medical College commences operations

Katra, Nov 9: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME) - Medical College under the aegis of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) Saturday commenced its operations in the Administrative Block of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Kakryal.

“This interim arrangement marked the beginning of SMVDIME – Medical College’s academic journey to provide quality medical education and healthcare services in the region by setting the foundation for a fully equipped, modern medical college campus in the near future, as per the directions of the Board at its 72nd Meeting held on April 3, 2024 under the chairmanship of Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor, J&K UT,” said a spokesperson of Shrine Board.

SMVDIME operations commenced after performing hawan amidst chanting of Vedic mantras at the campus.

Anshul Garg, Chief Executive Officer; Alok Kumar Maurya, Additional Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB; Pawan K Goswami, Deputy CEO; Dr Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director, SMVDIME; Dr Gopal K Sharma, Assistant CEO, SMVDSB and other officers from Shrine Board, newly recruited faculty and staff members, SMVDIME – Medical College; faculty SMVDU, SMVDCoN and Medical Officer, SMVDNSH were present on the occasion.

While addressing the distinguished gathering, the Chief Executive Officer welcomed the newly appointed faculty members and shared an inspiring overview of the hospital journey since its inception in the year 2016 by the Prime Minister of India. He highlighted the key milestones achieved, underscoring the hospital's unwavering dedication to delivering high quality health care in the region. He stated that the Board was dedicated not only to health care excellence but also to ensure the availability of world class medical services accessible to all.

Garg also outlined the Board's core values and encouraged the new faculty to embody these principles in their daily work. He also shared the details about the cutting-edge infrastructure being developed to support the comprehensive student-centred learning environment designed to faster the highest standard of medical education.

The SMVDIME - Medical College will offer its Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme from the Administrative Block of SMVDU, accommodating its first batch of students from the academic session 2025-26 as announced by the Chief Executive Officer.

“This strategic move ensures that academic activities can begin promptly while construction of the college’s dedicated campus is underway, demonstrating the Shrine Board's commitment to expanding healthcare access and medical education in the region,” the spokesperson said.

Dr Yashpal Sharma, Executive Director extended vote of thanks to all the esteemed dignitaries present on the occasion expressing gratitude for their time, support and encouragement.

With an intake capacity of 50 MBBS students per year (upgradable to 100 seats), SMVDIME - Medical College is designed to be a centre of excellence in healthcare education and practice. This initial phase allows the college to implement its academic programmes and student services effectively, utilizing the high-quality infrastructure of SMVDU.

The Administrative Block provides ample space for lecture halls, laboratories, and administrative offices, enabling a seamless start to the academic year while the final infrastructure of SMVDIME - Medical College is being established.

“The institution has brought together an exceptional team of experienced faculty members, medical professionals and administrative staff dedicated to fostering a rigorous, compassionate and innovative learning environment,” the spokesperson said.

“Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s leadership in establishing SMVDIME - Medical College underscores its dedication to contributing to healthcare and education infrastructure in the region. The board envisions SMVDIME as a hub for medical excellence, producing graduates equipped with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation to make meaningful contributions to society,” he added.