Chandigarh, Nov 1 (NationPress) The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh has taken a significant step towards its vision of creating a safer, more responsive, and patient-friendly environment with the induction of Army ex-servicemen as a new cohort of security personnel, officials announced on Saturday.

Director Vivek Lal stated, "The dedication and discipline these ex-servicemen bring will greatly enhance our institutional framework as we expand our clinical and research capabilities." This was expressed during the impressive induction ceremony of 287 newly appointed security personnel at the NINE Auditorium in PGIMER.

The ceremony represented a pivotal move towards bolstering institutional security and operational efficiency at PGIMER, where all 287 uniformed security personnel participated.

Attendees included senior PGIMER officials such as Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration); Ravinder Singh, Financial Advisor-cum-Chief Accountant; Ashok Kumar, Acting Medical Superintendent; and Ranjit Pal Singh Bhogal, Associate Professor, Department of Hospital Administration, along with various other faculty and administrative members.

Director Lal further remarked, "Through Punjab Ex-Servicemen Corporation (PESCO), PGIMER has added 287 ex-servicemen to its Security Department, marking a crucial advancement in institutional safety with disciplined and skilled personnel. This induction boosts PGIMER's security team to 1,000, providing extensive coverage across the institute’s expanding facilities. These veterans, with their rich experience in the Indian Armed Forces, contribute unparalleled vigilance, integrity, and crisis management capabilities to the healthcare environment. Their inclusion emphasizes PGIMER's dedication to national service and sets a standard for public institutions throughout India."

This initiative not only improves operational efficiency but also pays tribute to the enduring contributions of soldiers in civilian life, fostering a secure and respectful atmosphere for patients, staff, and visitors.

This follows the recent approval from the Standing Finance Committee to recruit an additional 300 security personnel in preparation for the commissioning of the Neurosciences Centre and the Mother and Child Centre, both anticipated to be operational by January 2026.

Director Lal emphasized, "This initiative showcases PGIMER's proactive approach to establishing a secure and patient-centric ecosystem, especially as the institute gears up for the launch of round-the-clock diagnostic services — a crucial step in enhancing accessibility and alleviating patient burdens."

Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), echoed the Director’s sentiments, stating, "Security is essential for maintaining the integrity and smooth operation of a complex healthcare institution like PGIMER. The induction of these trained personnel is a significant milestone in ensuring our patients, caregivers, and staff experience a safe and orderly environment."

This initiative highlights PGIMER's steadfast commitment to safety, efficiency, and patient welfare, ensuring that as the institute expands, it remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care, service, and institutional excellence.