PGI under fire: Rs 20cr grant lapses amid urgent equipment needs
This revelation contradicts the institute's repeated appeals to the ministry for high-cost MRI and CT scan machines crucial for its upcoming medical centre.
The unspent funds came to light during a recent Standing Finance Committee (SFC) meeting, headed by the health secretary, where PGI's budget of Rs 2,400 crore for 2025-26 was approved. This included Rs 1,450 crore under the salary head, Rs 550 crore under general grants, and the remaining for assets.
It was found that out of Rs 550 crore for the general grant, Rs 20 crore was not utilised. Despite repeated attempts to obtain an official version of events from PGI authorities, there was no response.
"So necessary corrections need to be done," a source quoted the SFC as saying, highlighting the ministry's displeasure over the lapsed grant. The lapse is particularly perplexing given PGI's pressing need for advanced diagnostic equipment.
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Sources indicate that several expensive machines, including a Biplane DSA and a dual-energy CT scanner, earmarked for the upcoming advanced neuroscience centre, were rejected by the Union ministry.
A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, questioned PGI's financial management: "How can the officials ask for expensive machines when good quality ones at lower rates are available? Also, it does not make sense when the PGI is not utilising the approved budget."
The incident has raised serious concerns about PGI's financial oversight and its ability to effectively manage and utilise allocated funds, especially when critical equipment shortages persist and impact patient care and research capabilities.
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