Bhubaneswar, April 12: Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda today declared the establishment of Eastern India’s first government-run Skin Bank at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
This crucial facility will collect skin from donors within six hours of death and provide lifesaving skin grafts for acute burn patients, eliminating the current dependency on centers in Mumbai and Bengaluru.
“This will not only improve survival outcomes but also significantly enhance the quality of life for patients in Odisha and neighbouring states,” said Nadda during his visit to AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
The Union Health Minister inaugurated the state-of-the-art Central Research Laboratory, envisioned as a powerhouse of medical innovation and translational research.
“This facility will be a catalyst for scientific discovery and open doors to pioneering treatments and healthcare solutions,” said Executive Director Prof. (Dr.) Ashutosh Biswas, highlighting the lab’s potential to place AIIMS Bhubaneswar on the national and global research map.
Laying the foundation stone of the upcoming Multiutility and Gastronomy Block, Nadda reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holistic development. The block will house essential services for students, faculty, employees, and the public—enhancing convenience, operational efficiency, and engagement.
As part of the institute’s digital transformation journey, Nadda launched the revamped AIIMS Bhubaneswar website, featuring patient-centric services, integrated functionalities, and a vibrant showcase of Odisha’s cultural legacy. The portal is designed to streamline access to healthcare services for patients and visitors alike.
The Minister also inaugurated the EHS Clinic and AMRIT Pharmacy, further bolstering the availability of affordable medicines and essential services to the public.
During his comprehensive tour, Nadda visited the cutting-edge Burn Centre, Swachhata Exhibition at OPD Foyer, Integrated Health & Wellness Clinic, Rheumatology & Geriatric Clinic, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and also planted a tree at Smruti Upavan, symbolizing commitment to a greener and healthier tomorrow.
In a heartening gesture, Nadda directly interacted with medical students, sanitary attendants, and staff members, sharing words of encouragement and appreciation. His presence served as a moral boost and inspiration for the entire AIIMS Bhubaneswar fraternity.
Nadda was accompanied by senior dignitaries of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, including including President of AIIMS Bhubaneswar Prof. (Dr.) Shailesh Kumar, Executive Director Prof. (Dr.) Ashutosh Biswas, Dean (Academics) Prof. (Dr.) Prasanta Raghab Mohapatra, Dean (Examination) Prof. (Dr.) Soubhagya Kumar Jena, Dean (Research) Prof. (Dr.) Satyaieet Misra, DDA Lt. Col. Abhijit Sarkar, Medical Superintendent Dr. Dillip Kumar Parida, Senior Administrative Officer Rasmi Ranjan Sethy.
