In a landmark development for healthcare in Rajasthan, Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Medical College, Ajmer, on Tuesday formally launched its Robotic Surgery Programme, marking a significant step towards advancing precision driven surgical care, medical training and healthcare innovation in the state.The event, held at the college auditorium, brought together eminent policymakers, healthcare leaders, surgeons and members of the medical fraternity to discuss the transformative role of robotic assisted surgery in improving patient outcomes and expanding access to advanced treatment options.The programme was inaugurated in the distinguished presence of Vasudev Devnani, Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, who attended as the chief guest.Demonstrating the versatility and clinical capabilities of the SSI Mantra robotic surgical system, the launch day also witnessed the successful completion of multiple robotic procedures across specialties. In General Surgery, Dr Shivkumar Bhunkar performed a robotic cholecystectomy and a right inguinal hernia repair under the proctorship of Dr Rajnish Meena, with bedside assistance from Satyendra Gomyal, Raju (Dr Rajnish Meena’s team), Mahesh Mahavat and Dr Naresh Meena.In Cardiac Surgery, Dr Sudhir Srivastava and Dr Lalit Malik successfully performed a robotic Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) closure, assisted at the table side by Surjit from Manipal Hospital and Dr Anurag Goyal. The cardiac procedure was completed in an impressive duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, underscoring the efficiency and precision enabled by robotic-assisted surgery.Vasudev Devnani, Speaker, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly said, “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr Sudhir Srivastava, Founder and CEO of SS Innovations, for his generous contribution of two state-of-the-art surgical robotic systems to his alma mater. This remarkable initiative will not only enable patients to benefit from world-class, technology-driven healthcare but will also create invaluable learning opportunities for medical students and young clinicians, equipping them with exposure to the latest advancements in surgical innovation and healthcare technology.“The introduction of robotic surgery and other advanced medical technologies in Rajasthan marks the beginning of a transformative chapter in the state’s healthcare journey. It will significantly strengthen both healthcare delivery and medical education, paving the way for improved patient outcomes and enhanced clinical training. This pioneering initiative is a major step toward establishing Rajasthan as a leader in the adoption of cutting-edge medical technologies and advancing the state’s vision for a modern, future-ready healthcare ecosystem.”Addressing the gathering, Dr Sudhir Srivastava, Founder, Chairman & CEO, SS Innovations International Inc. and renowned robotic cardiacsurgeon, highlighted the growing importance of indigenous healthcare technologies in transforming patient care. For Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, the occasion carried a deeply personal significance as he returned to his alma mater decades after graduating from JLN Medical College. Coming back to the institution where his medical journey began, to help launch a robotic surgery programme powered by the indigenous SSI Mantra system he envisioned and developed, marked a full circle moment in his illustrious career.“Robotic surgery is redefining the future of healthcare by enhancing surgical precision, improving clinical outcomes, and enabling faster recovery for patients. The launch of this programme at JLN Medical College is a significant milestone in our collective effort to democratize access to advanced surgical technologies and build capacity for the next generation of surgeons,” said Dr Srivastava.Dr Anil Samaria, Principal and Controller, JLN Medical College, Ajmer, added, “The introduction of the SSI Mantra robotic system marks a transformative step in our commitment to advancing medical education, surgical excellence, and patient care through indigenous innovation.”As part of the programme, experts shared insights on the opportunities, challenges and future prospects of robotic surgery in Rajasthan and India. The discussions underscored the importance of integrating technology with clinical expertise to deliver world class healthcare closer to patients.Speaking on the occasion, Dr Lalit Aditya Malik, Chief Cardiac Surgeon of Manipal Hospital, Jaipur said, “The introduction of robotic surgery at JLN Medical College represents a transformational step for healthcare delivery in Rajasthan. It strengthens our commitment to clinical excellence, enhances training opportunities for young surgeons, and most importantly, expands access to advanced surgical care for patients across the region.”The launch followed a series of live robotic surgical demonstrations and academic engagements held as part of the two-day programme, further reinforcing JLN Medical College’s commitment to fostering innovation, advancing medical education and elevating standards of patient care.The establishment of the Robotic Surgery Program is expected to position JLN Medical College as a leading centre for advanced surgical training and technology enabled healthcare in Rajasthan, paving the way for a future where cutting-edge treatment is accessible to a larger population.
