Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertiliaers, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, inaugurated a state-of-the-art Central Research Laboratory (CRL) at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, marking a major step in boosting medical research and innovation in Eastern India. He also laid the foundation stone for a Multiutility (Gastronomy) Block, aimed at enhancing campus infrastructure for students, faculty, and the public. The new CRL is designed to empower researchers and clinicians with advanced resources to develop impactful healthcare solutions, positioning AIIMS Bhubaneswar as a leading center for medical research. The Gastronomy Block will integrate essential amenities under one roof, improving campus operations and user experience. During his visit, the Minister also launched the revamped AIIMS Bhubaneswar website, featuring enhanced user interfaces, integrated services, and elements celebrating Odisha’s cultural heritage. In a move to further expand health services, Shri Nadda also inaugurated the EHS Clinic and AMRIT Pharmacy, while announcing plans for establishing a skin bank at the institute. He also visited the Burn Centre, NICU, Rheumatology & Geriatric Clinic, Swachhata Exhibition, and Health & Wellness Clinic. At Smruti Upavan, he planted a sapling, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainability. The visit concluded with a review meeting where the Minister interacted with students, staff, and administrators, reflecting an inclusive approach to healthcare governance. AIIMS Bhubaneswar officials including President Prof. (Dr) Shailesh Kumar, Executive Director Prof. (Dr) Ashutosh Biswas, and other senior faculty and staff accompanied the Minister during the occasion. Prof. Biswas noted that the CRL would act as a catalyst for translational research, enabling better treatments and outcomes for the region. He credited the continuous support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister JP Nadda as instrumental in pushing healthcare innovation forward. (PIB)