In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing the healthcare system in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated several development projects totaling an impressive investment of Rs 3,679 crore. A key highlight was the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building at the Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH), projected to cost Rs 3,300 crore. This redevelopment aims to position GMCH as one of the largest government medical colleges in eastern India, significantly augmenting its capacity with 2,250 beds in general wards, 400 beds in private wards, specialized operation theatres, a 250-bed ICU ward, and extensive parking for 1,670 vehicles.
Additionally, the Chief Minister inaugurated the 832-bed Mother and Child Hospital located within the GMCH premises, developed at a cost of Rs 376 crore. This facility enhances maternal and neonatal care, featuring 462 beds in general wards, a 152-bed NICU complex, and professional medical services such as antenatal and postnatal care, paediatric departments, and dedicated gynaecology services. Highlighting advancements in medical technology, the Chief Minister also introduced an indigenously developed surgical robot worth Rs 1.47 crore, along with a locally manufactured MRI machine costing Rs 1.27 crore and 82 cardiotocography machines valued at Rs 65 lakh.
During his address, Sarma emphasized the historic significance of these developments for Assam’s health sector, noting ongoing work on multiple cancer hospitals across the state and the establishment of new medical colleges, including the second one in Guwahati. He acknowledged the pressing need for modernization at existing hospitals and pointed out that GMCH caters to the highest volume of mothers and child patients in the region. The inauguration of the mother and Child Hospital, he stated, effectively addresses a long-standing gap in maternal and infant healthcare services within GMCH.