Jharkhand Govt Hospitals to Introduce Robotic Surgery as AI Drives Digital Health Push

Jharkhand also launched a 10-bed tele-ICU facility connecting district hospitals in Latehar, Gumla, Khunti, Ranchi and Chatra with specialists at RIMS for continuous critical-care support.

Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari has announced plans to introduce robotic surgery in government hospitals, medical colleges and hospitals, and the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), as the state expands its use of AI and digital technologies to improve healthcare delivery.

The state’s Chief Minister Digital Health Scheme, launched in 2025 with an estimated outlay of around INR 300 Cr, has been built around connectivity, Hospital Management Information System (HMIS), CCTV-based monitoring and a digital dashboard.

The HMIS is being used to support services such as patient registration, payments and doctor appointments, while work is underway to provide diagnostic reports digitally and maintain electronic health records.

Against this background, at the Jharkhand Digital Health Conclave 2026, Ansari said robotic surgery would soon be introduced across government healthcare facilities, including district hospitals, medical colleges and RIMS.

The government is working with experts and technology partners on the rollout, with the stated objective of addressing surgical backlogs and improving access to advanced procedures.

"Govt hospitals in Jharkhand are burdened with long queues of patients requiring surgeries. Surgeons also have limitations in performing a large number of procedures. To bridge the gap, the department is making significant efforts to introduce robotic surgery in state hospitals. This will ensure faster treatment, save valuable time, and require less manpower," he said.

AI is another focus area. The health department is developing a technology-based platform through which citizens could share information about health concerns digitally and receive guidance.

Officials have clarified that AI would serve as an assistance tool, while prescriptions would continue to be issued by doctors.

The state is also working on an AI-based system to manage and monitor around 80,000 sahiyas, medical staff, nurses, and other healthcare personnel.

The conclave also saw the launch of a 10-bed tele-ICU facility, the Chief Minister Digital Health Scheme, Health Resource Information System (HRIS), and the Jharkhand e-Health Portal.

The tele-ICU will connect district hospitals in Latehar, Gumla, Khunti, Ranchi, and Chatra with specialists at RIMS for continuous critical-care support.

The state has also been expanding digital connectivity across healthcare facilities, including Wi-Fi connectivity in district and sub-divisional hospitals.

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