KMC Manipal launches department of AI in healthcare

Udupi: Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, part of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), launched what it claims is India's first Department of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Healthcare on Friday, marking a milestone in the country's medical education. The department was inaugurated by Lt Gen (Dr) MD Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, at a ceremony held at Dr TMA Pai Auditorium. Highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration, Venkatesh said in a statement, “The future of healthcare is inextricably linked with technology. This initiative reflects our commitment to leading a healthcare revolution.” Dr Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE, outlined the roadmap for AI adoption, emphasising responsible innovation, news agency PTI reported. Also Read:KMC Manipal doctors successfully perform complex placenta accrete spectrum procedure on 31-year-old woman ''We envision a 360-degree implementation of AI—from diagnostics and treatment to reshaping medical education itself,” he said. Dean Dr Anil K Bhat said the department would focus on AI research, education, and clinical applications, training the next generation in predictive analytics, imaging, personalised medicine, and decision support systems. Plans include MSc and integrated MSc–PhD programmes in AI, faculty training, and collaborations with industry. The department will be coordinated by Dr Rachana and Dr Preethi Shetty, with support from faculty at KMC, Manipal Institute of Technology, and allied disciplines. Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that Dr P Raghu Ram, a renowned Surgeon, a Padma Shri awardee, and Founding Director of KIMS-Ushalakshmi Centre for Breast Diseases in Hyderabad, has been conferred the prestigious Distinguished Alumnus Award by Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangalore, as part of the institution's 70-year celebration. Recalling his journey, Dr Raghu Ram shared, “In 1995, I completed my MS exam with first place. It has been 30 years since then, and KMC remains an integral part of my professional and personal identity.” He expressed heartfelt gratitude to his teachers and trainers, saying, “I have learned many things not only about surgery but about etiquette, bedside manner, and patient care in KMC. I owe it to my teachers and trainers.”