Northeast Desk, August 3, 2024 — During the Zero Hour of the ongoing Lok Sabha session, Inner Manipur MP Prof. Bimol Akoijam made a compelling request to the Union Health Minister to elevate the status of the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Manipur to that of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
The Congress MP emphasized the critical role that RIMS, a 52-year-old institution, plays in the region’s healthcare system. He argued that recognizing RIMS as an institute of national importance would significantly enhance its capacity to serve the region, given its track record of producing healthcare professionals who work both domestically and internationally. The institute not only caters to patients from neighboring states but also to international patients from countries like Myanmar.
Prof. Bimol pointed out that upgrading RIMS to AIIMS would not only improve healthcare infrastructure but also contribute to the economic development of the state. He highlighted the urgent need for better mental health facilities in the Northeastern region, which is grappling with issues related to conflict, urbanization, and a severe drug-related crisis.
In his address, Prof. Bimol urged the Health Minister to establish a centrally-run mental health hospital and institute in Manipur. He emphasized that such an initiative would have a profoundly positive impact on both the health and economic sectors of the state, addressing a critical gap in mental health services and providing much-needed support to those affected by various crises in the region.