Himachal mulls separate college for allied sciences

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dhani Ram Shandil today announced that the state government will place the proposal of establishing a separate college for allied sciences before the Cabinet.

Speaking at the Cultural-cum-Literary Fest “Infusion 2025,” organised by the Technology Student Association of Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and Tanda Medical College, Shandil said the move would ensure that students need not go to other states for allied health studies.

He highlighted that there is no dearth of talent among the state’s youth, but they need the right platform. Seats for BSc Medical Lab Technician, BSc Radiology and Imaging, and BSc Anaesthesia and OT Technology have been increased from 10 to 50 at IGMC, Shimla, and from 18 to 50 at Tanda Medical College.

Stressing the importance of skilled manpower, the minister said trained personnel are essential to operate modern machines and equipment, which directly impacts the quality of healthcare services.

On environmental concerns, Shandil urged the youth to actively participate in tree plantation and environmental conservation, warning that current disasters are a consequence of human actions.

He also appealed to students to stay away from drugs, noting that the government has made anti-drug laws more stringent. “Drug dealers will not be spared under any circumstances,” he said. The event was attended by IGMC Principal Dr. Sita Thakur, Senior Medical Superintendent Dr Rahul Rao, and other officials.