CHANDIGARH, June 29: The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) is actively considering a proposal to transfer the management of hospital canteens to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), in a move aimed at raising quality, hygiene, and customer satisfaction standards.
“Partnering with IRCTC, known for its robust catering and hospitality services, could be a significant step forward,” said Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director, PGIMER, on Sunday.
The proposal is part of a wider institutional initiative to revamp PGIMER’s service delivery systems, following multiple incidents of non-compliance and negligence by contractors, especially in canteen and parking services.
“There is a pressing need to overhaul our service systems to better serve patients and staff,” Rai said.
The institute has adopted a zero-tolerance stance toward service lapses. In recent weeks, contractors found jeopardising safety and comfort on campus have faced termination and other punitive action.
“Any contractor found negligent or non-compliant will face appropriate action, including criminal proceedings if warranted,” said Prof Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER.
“Patient safety and overall well-being are our top priorities. Any breach of contractual obligations that compromise the hospital environment will be dealt with firmly and decisively,” he added.
In another key decision, PGIMER has received approval to hire 300 ex-servicemen as security personnel, who will be deployed in critical areas of the campus. The hiring process is expected to be completed within a month.
“This initiative will further enhance our ability to manage patient and visitor well-being more effectively,” Rai said.
The administration has announced that all contractual arrangements will now be subjected to regular monitoring. Any irregularities, especially in services critical to patient care, will be met with strong action to ensure that service quality and institutional integrity are upheld.
If approved, the handover of hospital canteens to IRCTC would mark a major shift in how the institute handles its support services, bringing in professional expertise and accountability in catering operations at one of the country’s busiest hospitals.
