In a significant step towards revamping healthcare services in Tripura, a high-level delegation from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, concluded its three-day assessment of the state’s medical infrastructure on Monday.

The team, led by AIIMS Director Dr. M Srinivas, will soon submit a comprehensive action plan to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, aimed at bridging key gaps in healthcare delivery across the state.

Speaking to reporters at the Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) on Monday, Dr. Srinivas emphasized that the visit was in response to a formal invitation from the Chief Minister, who is also holding the Health portfolio.

“Our task was to conduct an independent review of patient care, hospital infrastructure, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. We’ve interacted with patients, doctors, and administrators to gauge ground realities. Based on this, we will present a roadmap for strengthening Tripura’s healthcare services,” he said.

Responding to speculation over Tripura getting an AIIMS branch, Dr. Srinivas clarified, “Setting up an AIIMS is a policy matter for the central and state governments to decide. Our focus is on immediate improvements in healthcare delivery and hospital management.”

Echoing optimism, AIIMS Professor Dr. Ramesh Agarwal praised the state’s achievements so far.

“Tripura has a better hospital bed ratio than many other states, with more than one bed available for every 1000 people. The state has managed to reduce infant mortality below the national average and has established trauma care facilities in multiple district hospitals. Neurosurgery is also available, which speaks of commendable progress,” he noted.

However, Dr. Agarwal flagged nursing staff shortages as an area needing urgent attention. “While the doctor-patient ratio is not alarming, the nurse-patient ratio must be improved. This is not just Tripura’s issue—it’s a nationwide challenge.”

The AIIMS team’s forthcoming report is expected to lay the groundwork for critical reforms in Tripura’s healthcare sector, aligning it more closely with national benchmarks and modern healthcare standards.