The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jammu has submitted a comprehensive proposal to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to establish an Institute of Traumatology and a Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, in collaboration with premier institutions from Israel and the United Kingdom, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
A New Year Focused on Expansion and Advanced Care
As it enters the new year, AIIMS Jammu plans to accelerate its growth by launching several new clinical services. Notably, the institute will introduce open-heart surgery within the next two to three months, marking a major milestone in advanced cardiac care for the region.
India’s First Dedicated Institute of Traumatology
Speaking on the proposal, Prof. Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, stated that the proposed Institute of Traumatology would be the first of its kind in India. He explained that AIIMS Jammu has submitted plans for both a Centre of Excellence in Trauma Sciences and a full-fledged Institute of Traumatology to the Union health ministry.
Furthermore, the institute plans to develop this centre in collaboration with a leading Israeli institution, bringing global expertise to India’s trauma care ecosystem.
Addressing Jammu and Kashmir’s High Trauma Burden
As reported by The Print, emphasising the urgency of the initiative, Prof. Gupta highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir is a multi-hazard-prone region, frequently exposed to earthquakes, floods, landslides, avalanches, snowstorms, and man-made disasters such as road accidents, fires, and terrorist incidents.
Therefore, the proposed institute aims to function as a regional and national referral centre, delivering comprehensive, efficient, and multidisciplinary trauma care — from emergency stabilisation to long-term rehabilitation. In particular, it seeks to address the growing burden of trauma cases, especially those arising from road accidents.
Building on an Existing Trauma and Emergency Foundation
Currently, AIIMS Jammu operates a functional Trauma and Emergency Department that has already managed a significant volume of cases. According to officials, this existing facility will form the foundation for the second phase of development, ultimately evolving into a full-scale Institute of Traumatology.
In addition, AIIMS Jammu is exploring collaboration with Sheba Medical Centre, Israel, one of the world’s leading trauma centres, for advanced training and technical support in trauma management.
Proposed Global Centre of Excellence for AI in Healthcare
Alongside trauma care, AIIMS Jammu has also proposed the establishment of a Global Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare. Prof. Gupta explained that this centre would focus on AI-enabled diagnostics, predictive medicine, and clinical decision support systems.
As a result, the initiative is expected to enhance the speed and accuracy of treatment, improve clinical outcomes, and significantly reduce healthcare costs.
Upcoming Facilities and Centres of Excellence
Located at Vijaypur in Samba district, AIIMS Jammu will continue to expand its infrastructure and services in the coming months. In addition to open-heart surgery, the institute’s Governing Body has approved multiple Centres of Excellence, including:
- Ophthalmology with skill development
- Dental sciences
- Comprehensive cancer care
- Robotics and techno-surgery
- Telemedicine and telecare
- Predictive medical technology
- Research and international collaborations
- Quality and patient safety
- Simulation and skill development
Moreover, the institute plans to become completely paperless within the next three months, strengthening efficiency and digital integration.
Strengthening Local Employment and Workforce Diversity
On the employment front, Prof. Gupta noted that AIIMS Jammu has prioritised local recruitment. Currently, 58 per cent of faculty members are from Jammu and Kashmir. Among senior residents, 61 of 76 are locals, while 312 of 604 nursing staff belong to the Union Territory.
Additionally, 31 per cent of administrative and other staff are local residents, and women constitute 70 per cent of the total workforce, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusivity.
Expanding Bed Capacity and Ongoing Recruitment
At present, AIIMS Jammu operates 400 beds, with approval already granted for 750 beds. As facilities expand, bed capacity will continue to increase. While some departments face staffing shortages, Prof. Gupta confirmed that recruitment is ongoing, with regular appointments being made to meet growing clinical demands.