P.R. Sodani
President, IIHMR University, Jaipur

A postgraduate in public health with a doctorate in health economics from the University of North Carolina (USA), Prof. P.R. Sodani is the President of IIHMR University, Jaipur and co-founder of IIHMR Foundation.

What are the major objectives set for IIHMR University for India’s Freedom Centenary in 2047?

IIHMR University is committed to contributing meaningfully to the nation’s development by strengthening leadership in health management, public health, hospital administration, and health systems research. We aim to become a global hub for excellence in healthcare education and policy, fostering innovation and capacity-building to address India’s evolving healthcare challenges.

How satisfied are you with your progress thus far?

We are proud of the progress IIHMR University has made so far in advancing health management education and research in India and beyond. Over the years, we have established ourselves as a premier higher ed institution in the field, with strong focus on academic excellence, policy impact, and capacity building. Our alumni have made significant contributions to public health systems, hospitals, development sectors, and global health organizations.

While we acknowledge the milestones achieved, we remain aware that there is still much to accomplish. The evolving healthcare landscape demands continuous innovation and adaptation. We are committed to deepening our impact through interdisciplinary research, digital transformation, and greater collaboration, ensuring that our journey towards Vision 2047 remains dynamic and purpose-driven.

What are your major initiatives to contemporise your syllabus /curriculum?

IIHMR University has undertaken several major initiatives to contemporise its syllabus. We have integrated emerging areas such as healthcare analytics, digital health, artificial intelligence, health financing, and implementation science into the curriculum. Regular inputs from industry experts, alumni, and academic leaders ensure that our programs remain aligned with current global and national trends.

How satisfied are you with your connect with Indian industry and business?

Highly satisfied with our growing and robust connect with Indian industry and business, particularly within the healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and development sectors. Through strategic collaborations, corporate partnerships, internships, and placement opportunities, we have established strong industry linkages that add significant value to our academic and professional training ecosystem.

R&D and innovation are widely perceived as Indian academia’s infirmity.  What’s your institutional response to create new knowledge?

As a research-driven institution, we have made significant strides in fostering a strong culture of inquiry and evidence-based learning. Our faculty and research centres regularly undertake policy-relevant and applied research projects in collaboration with government bodies, international organizations, and industry partners.

To strengthen innovation, we encourage interdisciplinary research, support student-led research initiatives, and continuously invest in capacity-building through workshops, data labs, and conferences.

What’s your prescription for transforming  India into a $30 trillion GDP economy by 2047? 

Transforming India into a $30 trillion GDP economy by 2047 requires a multi-pronged strategy rooted in inclusive growth, innovation, and human capital development. A key priority must be greater investment in quality education, skill development, and healthcare to build a  productive workforce. Leveraging technology, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating an enabling environment for startups and MSMEs will further drive innovation and job creation.

Also Read: IIHMR University: 35 Years of institutional excellence