Kolkata's Premier Medical Institute Earns National Research Distinction
In a significant achievement for medical research in eastern India, the state-run IPGMER-SSKM Hospital in Kolkata has been officially recognized as a Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE) by the central ministry of health research. This prestigious designation places the hospital among an elite group of just eight medical institutes across the country to receive this honor.
Exclusive Recognition for Eastern and Northeastern Zones
According to state health department officials, IPGMER-SSKM stands as the only medical institute in the entire eastern and northeastern regions of India to achieve this distinction. The recognition follows a rigorous three-month assessment process that evaluated both current performance and future research potential.
The other medical institutions sharing the CoRE designation include:
- King George Medical College
- Madrid Medical College
- Armed Forces Medical College, Pune
- AIIMS Rishikesh
Substantial Funding and Research Opportunities
As part of this recognition, IPGMER-SSKM will receive an initial grant of Rs 3 crore specifically designated for upgrading research equipment and infrastructure. An official from the hospital explained the broader implications: "This honor reflects the quality of research work by our team at the Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit and our future projects. Beyond infrastructure funding, we can now expect to secure various research projects that will ultimately benefit medical science and improve patient care."
The official emphasized that this achievement will encourage more doctors to engage in research activities, creating a virtuous cycle of medical advancement.
Stringent Selection Process and Approved Projects
India hosts approximately 120 Multi-Disciplinary Research Units (MRUs) approved by the central government, with about 85 located in medical colleges. These units underwent stringent scrutiny of their current performance and proposed research initiatives to qualify for CoRE status.
The IPGMER-SSKM MRU team submitted three future research projects that received approval during the assessment:
- Tuberculosis research
- Liver cancer studies
- Neonatal care advancements
Three professors specializing in these respective subjects have been appointed as nodal officers to lead these initiatives.
Building on Existing Excellence
This latest recognition adds to IPGMER-SSKM's growing portfolio of medical excellence. The state-run medical college already houses several centers of excellence, including facilities for rare diseases and cochlear implants for children with hearing impairment. In October 2021, the West Bengal government officially recognized IPGMER as a Centre of Excellence in medical education, research, and patient care.
The state health department celebrated this achievement publicly, posting on social media platform X: "The department of health and family welfare congratulates all members of the IPGMER family for this recognition and extends best wishes for their future endeavors."
This national recognition positions IPGMER-SSKM Hospital as a leading hub for medical research in eastern India, promising enhanced research capabilities, increased funding opportunities, and ultimately, improved healthcare outcomes for patients across the region and beyond.
