AIIMS Delhi Champions Robotic Surgery Training with Dual da Vinci Systems
AIIMS Delhi has marked a historic milestone in medical education and healthcare innovation by installing the da Vinci Surgical Robot at its Skills, E-learning and Telemedicine (SET) facility. This state-of-the-art robotic system is the first of its kind installed for training purposes at a government medical college in India. With this addition, AIIMS Delhi becomes the only institute in the country to house two robotic surgery training platforms, the other being the Hugo training robot.
The da Vinci system allows surgeons, residents, nurses, and faculty to gain hands-on experience in robotic-assisted surgeries across multiple specialities such as urology, gynaecology, general surgery, surgical oncology, and head and neck surgery. The training centre is equipped with simulators, manikins, and digital tools designed to provide a safe, supervised, and stress-free environment for mastering these advanced surgical techniques.
Previously, many Indian surgeons had to travel abroad at high costs to learn robotic surgery. With this facility, AIIMS addresses the growing demand for precision-driven technologies domestically, enabling widespread access to robotic surgery training within the country. The move is expected to improve surgical accuracy, reduce patient recovery times, and raise the overall quality of care.
AIIMS Director Dr. M. Srinivas emphasised that this facility reinforces the institute’s leadership role in advancing surgical education and innovation in India. Dr. Amlesh Seth, head of the Urology Department, noted that robotic surgery transforms operative methods by enhancing control, precision, and visualisation, and that early exposure to such techniques will prepare residents better for independent practice.
The collaboration with Intuitive Surgical includes ongoing support to maximise the training system’s potential, signalling a significant step toward establishing India as a hub for high-quality robotic surgery and education.
AIIMS’s leap in robotic surgery training also inspires younger minds. Early exposure to robotics builds curiosity and problem-solving skills. Programs like Robotics for Kids by Maker Muse nurture innovation, offering children hands-on learning experiences that spark interest in technology, engineering, and future medical advancements.
