A Premier Institution for Medical Excellence
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), located in New Delhi, has long been recognized as a beacon of medical excellence in India. Established in 1956, it was envisioned by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and championed by Union Health Minister Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Over the years, AIIMS Delhi has maintained its reputation as the leading medical institution in the country, known for its cutting-edge research, high patient volume, and specialized treatment facilities.
For those pursuing an MBBS degree, the opportunity to study at AIIMS is highly coveted. However, the postgraduate (PG) programs are equally sought after, offering a unique blend of academic rigor, clinical exposure, and research opportunities that set the standard for medical training in India.
Competitive Admissions and World-Class Facilities
Admission to PG programs at AIIMS Delhi is highly competitive, with the INI-CET exam being the primary gateway. Each year, approximately 50,000 MBBS graduates and 25,000 dental graduates take this test, yet only a fraction—less than one percent—secure a seat. The institute's sprawling green campus in South Delhi's Ansari Nagar provides state-of-the-art facilities that support both professional and personal development.
Students often highlight the faculty as one of the key strengths of their education. These experts guide residents through complex clinical cases, research methodologies, biostatistics, and critical thinking. The faculty not only teaches but also inspires, shaping the future of healthcare in India and beyond.
Notable Achievements and Innovations
In 2024, the AIIMS faculty achieved remarkable milestones. Dr. Neerja Bhatla, head of Gynae Oncology, was honored with the Padma Shri for her work in cervical cancer prevention. Under Dr. Deepak Agrawal’s leadership, AIIMS became the first in India to use Gamma Knife radiosurgery for treating retinoblastoma in children. Dr. Ashok Kumar Mahapatra led a groundbreaking surgery to separate conjoined craniopagus twins, earning national recognition. Dr. Prasun Chatterjee was elected Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh and serves on the WHO Technical Advisory Group for Healthy Ageing.
Clinical Exposure and Research Opportunities
One of the major advantages of studying at AIIMS Delhi is the vast and diverse patient inflow from across the country. This provides PG students with unparalleled exposure to rare and complex cases, enhancing their clinical skills and diagnostic acumen. The institute operates one of the busiest trauma centers in Asia, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience in emergency and high-stress situations from the very beginning of their training.
The central library at AIIMS is one of the best in Asia, offering access to thousands of medical journals, e-resources, and research databases. Dedicated reading zones and 24/7 digital access ensure that PG students can conduct research anytime, anywhere. The institute supports original research through its research cell, ethics committees, and institutional funding, along with access to advanced medical equipment in dedicated laboratories for pathology, molecular biology, genetics, and radiology.
Global Collaborations and Technological Advancements
AIIMS Delhi collaborates with global institutions such as Harvard Medical School and the World Health Organization, facilitating exchange programs and joint research initiatives. Recently, AIIMS partnered with IIT Delhi to establish a Centre of Excellence for AI in healthcare, showcasing its commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
Career Prospects and Transformative Experience
Graduates of AIIMS Delhi enjoy exceptional career prospects, with many securing senior residencies, teaching positions, and fellowships abroad. They also find opportunities in leadership roles within government and private healthcare sectors. Being a PG student at AIIMS is more than just obtaining a degree—it is a transformative experience that equips doctors with the skills and confidence to lead in the field of healthcare.
Faculty Insights and Institutional Initiatives
The mission of AIIMS Delhi includes achieving self-reliance in advanced medical education. In 2024 alone, the institute managed over 900 extramural research projects and supported nearly 270 intramural initiatives, with a cumulative grant value exceeding Rs 208 crore. Students benefit from exposure to a wide range of clinical cases and cutting-edge technologies.
The institute places a strong emphasis on student wellness, with the Department of Psychiatry operating an on-campus wellness center. Additionally, a new intramural research funding scheme was launched to empower postgraduate researchers.
Key developments include the K.L. Wig Centre for Medical Education, Technology & Innovation (CMETi), which hosts capacity-building programs for faculty and students. The Robotic Surgery Training Facility (MeHNAT) offers advanced surgical training using Medtronic Hugo robotic systems. The SET Facility supports e-Education and national telehealth efforts by linking medical colleges across India.
Campus Life and Academic Experience
Life at AIIMS Delhi is both intense and enriching. The campus reflects the diversity of India, with residents bringing different languages, cuisines, and traditions. Festivals like Diwali, Onam, Bihu, and others are celebrated together, fostering a sense of community.
Academically, students engage in weekly Journal Club sessions, guest lectures, and interactive discussions. Their duties include leading case-based discussions and practicals for MBBS students, ensuring that they connect textbook learning with real-life clinical scenarios.
Thesis work is a significant part of the MD program, supported by 24/7 access to labs and equipment. Students also find ways to manage stress, whether through physical activities or late-night walks.
At AIIMS Delhi, life is a mix of intense academics, research, teaching, and community building. Here, ambition finds direction, and medical education becomes an art.