PGIMER considering proposal to transfer canteen management to IRCTC

Chandigarh, Jun 29 (PTI) A proposal to transfer the management of hospital canteens to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is being considered by Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) here.

This move aims to enhance quality, hygiene standards, and customer satisfaction through professional management and proven operational excellence, a statement said.

"PGIMER has adopted a zero-tolerance stance toward any lapses or misconduct by contractors engaged in providing essential services such as canteen and parking facilities," it said.

According to the statement, in recent weeks, PGIMER has identified some instances of non-compliance and negligence by contractors that jeopardise the safety and comfort of those on campus.

"In response, the institute has initiated stringent action against erring contractors, including issuing termination orders where necessary. These measures are part of PGIMER's broader drive to uphold the highest standards of service and to ensure that patient care is not compromised by ancillary service deficiencies," it said.

Prof Vivek Lal, Director PGIMER, reaffirmed the institute's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and safety as he stated, "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." "We are dedicated to maintaining a secure, clean, and efficient environment for everyone at PGIMER -- be it patients, researchers, or students. Any contractor found negligent or non-compliant will face appropriate action, including criminal proceedings if the situation warrants," he said.

The statement said the PGIMER is actively exploring innovative solutions to revamp its service systems.

As part of this initiative, a proposal has been put forward to transfer the management of hospital canteens to the IRCTC.

Giving details about the proposal, Pankaj Rai, Deputy Director (Administration), PGIMER, said, "There is a pressing need to overhaul our service delivery systems to better serve our patients and staff. Partnering with IRCTC, known for its robust catering and hospitality services, could be a significant step forward in this direction".

Rai also said that PGIMER has received approval to hire 300 ex-servicemen as security personnel, who will be deployed at all critical areas to supplement our existing security team.

"These security personnel will be hired within a month, and this initiative will further enhance our ability to manage patient and visitor well-being more effectively," he stated.

Additionally, the institute's administration said that all contractual arrangements will be regularly monitored, and any irregularities will be dealt with firmly. PTI SUN RT RT RT