Category: Events

Beginning of PIMC is Inspiring: Prof Hasnain, IIT New Delhi 9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri Bhoi, November 11, 2024: The much-anticipated Orientation Program for the inaugural MBBS batch of PA Sangma International Medical College (PIMC) commenced today at the Central Auditorium of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM). The program will span over 14 days, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s medical education landscape. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Padma Shri Prof. Dr. Seyed Ehtesham Hasnain, National Science Chair, IIT New Delhi, and former Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Hamdard and the University of Hyderabad. Other esteemed speakers included Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of USTM; Prof. GD Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM; Dr. BK Das, Principal of PIMC; Dr. Jogesh Sharma, Director of Medical Education and Research, PIMC; and Dr. (Prof) Bhabani Prasad Chakravarty, Medical Director of Health City Hospitals. The event witnessed active participation from the Heads of various departments, faculty members, newly enrolled MBBS students, and their parents and guardians. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Dr. Seyed Ehtesham Hasnain lauded the visionary efforts of Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque in fostering excellence in education. He remarked, “The beginning of PIMC is truly inspiring. If it starts this way, imagine where it will be in 5 or 10 years—it will be just amazing.” Prof. Hasnain emphasized the importance of future advancements in medical science, touching on topics such as predictive knowledge, HIV and cancer care, and the role of beneficial bacteria in human health. He also spoke on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medicine while highlighting that computers can never replicate human compassion and empathy, qualities essential for healthcare professionals. He encouraged students to dedicate themselves to hard work, promising, “The hard work will not go unrewarded.” In his welcome address, Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque expressed his vision for PIMC, stating, “We must think out of the box. This Medical College is poised to be very special, building on the legacy we have created at USTM. Our focus is on fostering research and innovation.” Dr. BK Das, Principal of PIMC, motivated the students to be proactive, urging them to approach authorities with any concerns or suggestions. He assured them that the institution is committed to their holistic development. Dr. (Prof) Bhabani Prasad Chakravarty emphasized the importance of empathy in patient care, advising the future doctors to approach every patient with sensitivity and thoroughness. “Examine first, diagnose later. Only then can you ensure proper care,” he advised. Prof. GD Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM, spoke on the holistic development of students, encouraging them to embrace challenges and seize opportunities. “Start dreaming, have a vision, and pursue it relentlessly,” he urged the new MBBS students.

9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri Bhoi, October 6, 2024: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), a NAAC accredited A grade university, proudly announces a significant milestone in its educational journey with the nod from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India and National Medical Commission (NMC) approving the PA Sangma International Medical College (PIMC), a joint venture of USTM and the Government of Meghalaya. In this context, a press conference was addressed here today by Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Founder Chancellor USTM; Prof GD Sharma, Vice Chancellor USTM; Padma Shri Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah, Pro VC USTM; Dr RK Sharma, Advisor USTM; Prof Dr Biraj Kumar Das, Principal, PIMC; and Dr Rashna Dass Hazarika, Medical Superintendent PIMC. Addressing the media, Shri Mahbubul Hoque said, “This is a historic achievement for USTM and a crucial step in our journey to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector of the region and the nation. From now onwards patients and students need not go outside the region for healthcare services.” Speaking to the media, Padma Shri Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah said, “PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital is also planning a super speciality hospital within the premise of USTM. This would be a 1000 beded hospital which would cater to the need of the patients from the entire North East and other parts of the country who need super speciality care like cardiology, cardiac surgery, neurology, neurosurgery, nephrology, urology, joint replacement and cancer care. We are planning to invite super specialist doctors from different countries to collaborate with us to develop the PIMC to a world class facility”. Prof GD Sharma stated, “This landmark development allows the medical college an intake of 150 students for its inaugural MBBS program, marking a new chapter in USTM’s commitment to providing top-tier education in the field of medicine”. Prof Dr Biraj Kumar Das said that PIMC has set milestones in three verticals: namely quality medical education, outstanding healthcare facility, and cutting-edge research facility. To achieve excellence, competent healthcare professionals have been engaged from all over the country. Dr Rashna Dass Hazarika said that the Academic Session will start from the last week of October 2024 inviting applications from aspiring doctors from across the country. PIMC will offer various attractive facilities for the MBBS students, he added. Named in honor of the late PA Sangma, a visionary leader and former Speaker of the Lok Sabha, PIMC is set to become a premier institution for medical education in Northeast India. The college will offer a competency-based curriculum designed to foster the development of medical professionals who are equipped to meet the healthcare needs of society. 40 seats are allotted as state government seats out of which 25 seats are as per the government fees structure and 15 seats will be in half of the university fees structure. In terms of healthcare facilities, 50% concession facilities for super speciality shall be offered to the patients from Meghalaya with free general treatment facilities. The state-of-the-art medical college aims to attract talented students from across the country and beyond. With the first batch of 150 students, PIMC is poised to set new standards in medical education and healthcare services. One of its major objectives is to attract ASEAN countries to avail healthcare facilities of PIMC in the near future.

9th Mile, Ri Bhoi, September 1, 2024: The University of Science and Technology-Meghalaya (USTM) paid heartfelt tribute to Late PA Sangma, former Lok Sabha Speaker and Chief Minister of Meghalaya, during a solemn ceremony marking his 77th birth anniversary today. Late Sangma was remembered as an exemplary statesman and a beacon of inspiration and was honored with floral tributes by the entire USTM family. In this context, Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of USTM reflected on the enduring influence of Late PA Sangma and said that he has been an all-time inspiration and great support to USTM since its inception. “His memory is our guiding light,” Hoque stated, highlighting the upcoming PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital, a cutting-edge multi-specialty facility approved by the Meghalaya Cabinet, as a tribute to Late PA Sangma’s legacy. Prof GD Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM, emphasized the university’s dedication to preserving Late PA Sangma’s memory, noting, “At USTM, we honor his legacy through the establishment of a Chair for Tribal Research and by naming a university block after him. These efforts ensure that future generations will continue to draw inspiration from his life and ideals.” Dr. Rashna Dass Hazarika, Medical Superintendent of PIMC, echoed these sentiments, praising Late PA Sangma as a visionary leader and founder of the National People’s Party (NPP), the first national political party from the North East. “His legacy continues to inspire us, and we remain forever grateful to him,” she remarked.

9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri Bhoi, June 21, 2024: Along with the country and many parts of the world, the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) also celebrated the tenth International Yoga Day today with great enthusiasm. Hundreds of students, faculty members, doctors, nurses, officials, and staff took part in the event aimed at promoting good health with a sound mind. The event was organized by USTM and the upcoming PA Sangma International Medical College (PIMC) at the USTM campus.     The theme chosen for this year’s International Day of Yoga 2024 is “Yoga for Self and Society” highlighting the vital role of yoga in enhancing the well-being of self and society as a whole. The doctors and staff of PIMC have celebrated the occasion at the medical college and hospital campus. The ceremonial lamp was lit by Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor USTM, Padma Shri Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah, Pro Vice-Chancellor USTM, Dr Biraj Kumar Das, Principal PIMC, and others.   The doctors performed yoga asanas on the occasion. Addressing the doctors, Chancellor M Hoque said, “Yoga is a journey of self-discovery, a path to inner peace, and a means to cultivate a balanced life. Through the practice of yoga, we connect our body, mind, and spirit, fostering a holistic sense of well-being”.     Dr Sahariah also addressed the gathering and said that yoga teaches us resilience in the face of challenges, patience in moments of stress, and the importance of mindfulness in our fast-paced world.   The main goal of the International Day of Yoga is to spread the word about yoga as a holistic way to improve mental and physical health. This observance has a significant impact on highlighting the significance of mental and physical health in the modern world. In addition, the day encourages regular meditation practice to cultivate mental clarity and self-awareness, which are necessary for success in a stress-free environment. The overall goal of International Yoga Day is to make people more aware of the many benefits of yoga.  

A seminar cum Group Discussion on “An Overview of Competency Based Medical Education and its Application” has been organised today by the Department of Anatomy, PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital at USTM under the aegis of Medical Education Unit, PIMC. The resource person was Dr Amitav Sarma, Professor and HoD, Department of Anatomy, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong.

The Hon’ble Chancellor Shri M Hoque and PIMC Principal Dr Biraj Kr Das inaugurated the new ICU and Semi ICU facilities at PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital.

PIMC hosted a momentous gathering today, bringing together esteemed doctors, scholars, and students to celebrate World No Tobacco Day 2024. The event featured impactful discussions and strategies aimed at combatting the grave consequences of tobacco use. Organized by the Indian Dental Association Assam State Branch, in partnership with the Departments of ENT and Dentistry at PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital, USTM, the event garnered immense success. Distinguished figures including Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor, USTM; Padma Shri Dr. Sarbeswar Sahariah, Pro Vice Chancellor, USTM; and other renowned personalities graced the occasion. Topics such as Oral Cancer Prevention, Cancer Risk Factors in Northeast India, and the critical choice between Smoking or Health were addressed, emphasizing the importance of awareness in this fight. Let’s unite in our efforts to raise awareness and combat tobacco consumption!

The Pathology Department of PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital (PIMCH) celebrated World Blood Donor’s Day at the USTM Campus!

9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri Bhoi, February 10, 2024: The first batch of doctors who have recently joined the upcoming PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital (PIMC) at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) had a fruitful discussion here today on the occasion of the “1st Orientation Programme of Founder Doctors” and prepared a strategy for the Medical College. The Orientation was presided over by Padma Shri Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah, Pro Vice-Chancellor USTM in the presence of Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor USTM and Dr Biraj Kumar Das, Principal designate PIMC, apart from a host of doctors. Welcoming the gathering of about a hundred doctors, including those participating the orientation in Zoom Meet, Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque said that PIMC is a dream that is coming to reality. He spoke about the spirit behind building an institution and that the effort comes from everywhere, right from the housekeeping staff to the high officials. Addressing the doctors’ community, he said, “Without the support and dedication of the doctors, the journey of PIMC is not possible. We want to extend healthcare facilities even to the poor who cannot afford them. In the next two to three years, we hope to work with a lot of expertise in the medical field. We always emphasize quality education and research.” Speaking on the occasion, Dr Biraj Kumar Das, Principal designate of PIMC said, “PIMC will be one of the best institutes of India”. He said that those doctors who have already joined, are the creamy layer of the region. “We are now working aggressively to develop an excellent medical college and hospital here. Morning shows the day. The process has already begun and about 88 doctors have joined the upcoming medical college and I am confident that we will receive the letter of permission from the National Medical Commission very soon”, he added. In his presidential address, Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah thanked Chancellor Hoque for giving him the opportunity to work with USTM medical college and serve the people of the region. “USTM is a larger organisation and PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital is under USTM. It’s a bigger family, satellite-like family.” He said that the medical college will not only depend on the students from the region but also from the neighbouring countries. “I am sure People from all over the country will come and join us”, he added. owards the end of the orientation programme, all the doctors gave their introduction and unanimously appreciated the vision and mission of USTM Chancellor M Hoque. They expressed their desire to work for the growth of the institution and create a centre of excellence in medical education and research. The programme ended with a vote of thanks offered by Ms Anju Hazarika, Registrar of USTM. She urged all the doctors to cooperate with the mission healthcare of USTM.