Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, a constituent of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), has become the first medical college in India to establish a dedicated Department of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare. The new unit aims to serve as an interdisciplinary hub bringing together medicine, engineering and data science to address complex healthcare challenges.

The department was inaugurated at the Dr TMA Pai Auditorium by Lt Gen (Dr) M. D. Venkatesh VSM (Retd), vice-chancellor of MAHE, who described it as a “statement of commitment to leading a healthcare revolution” by translating AI research into clinical practice.

Outlining its roadmap, Dr Sharath K Rao, pro vice-chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE, said the initiative would embed AI across the healthcare spectrum — from diagnostics and treatment to reshaping medical education. He stressed the importance of “responsible innovation” and maintaining human oversight over AI systems.

According to Dr Anil K. Bhat, dean of KMC and senior advisor to the department, the mission is to advance research, education and clinical applications while training a new generation of healthcare-AI leaders. Academic plans include launching MSc and integrated MSc–PhD programmes in AI, alongside courses to upskill faculty and students, and fostering collaborations with industry and research partners.

The department will be coordinated by Dr Rachana and Dr Preethi Shetty, supported by faculty from KMC, Manipal Institute of Technology, Information & Data Sciences, Public Health, and guided by MAHE leadership.

Founded in 1953, KMC Manipal is one of India’s premier medical institutions. Its parent body, MAHE, recognised as an Institution of Eminence, ranks fourth in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and is internationally acclaimed for its academic and research excellence.

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