The 18 fully functional new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) have collectively recorded approximately 6.01 crore Outpatient Department (OPD) consultations since 2021-22, reflecting the expanding reach of specialised tertiary healthcare across the country.
According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the institutions recorded more than 6 crore consultations over the five-year period up to October 31, 2026. The growing patient footfall highlights their increasing role in providing access to specialised medical services closer to people across different regions.
The Government has been expanding the AIIMS network under PMSSY to address regional disparities in the availability of affordable and reliable tertiary healthcare. The initiative also aims to strengthen medical education and research infrastructure alongside the delivery of specialised healthcare services.
Of the 22 new AIIMS approved in different phases under the scheme, 18 are now fully functional. These institutions provide a range of services, including outpatient and inpatient care, emergency and trauma services, diagnostic facilities, medical education and research.
OPD consultations rise steadily
The annual OPD figures indicate a substantial increase in the utilisation of services at the new AIIMS. Patient consultations rose from 50.03 lakh in 2021-22 to 77.95 lakh in 2022-23 and 100.52 lakh in 2023-24.
The number increased further to 129.98 lakh in 2024-25 and reached 144.96 lakh in 2025-26. During the current financial year 2026-27, the institutions recorded another 97.41 lakh OPD consultations up to October 2026.
The cumulative total across these years stands at approximately 6.01 crore consultations, underlining the growing demand for and utilisation of specialised healthcare services at the institutions.
Beyond patient care, the new AIIMS have expanded opportunities for undergraduate, postgraduate and nursing education. They are also developing specialised clinical facilities and advanced medical services, contributing to the country’s medical education, research and healthcare infrastructure.
The expansion of the AIIMS network under PMSSY is aimed at creating a wider national framework for accessible tertiary healthcare while strengthening India’s capacity in medical training, research and specialised treatment.
Published: Wednesday, 11 November 2026 | 12:06 PM IST