India's First Helicopter Emergency Medical Service to Start in Uttarakhand

• 15 Feb 2024

Why in News?

India is set to witness its first Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) which will operate from All India Institute for Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rishikesh.

Key Points

• The new HEMS would operate under project 'Sanjeevani' with a coverage radius of 150 kilometers.
  • This will ensure timely transportation of accident victims and patients from hilly terrain to AIIMS.
• The emergency helicopter services will be indispensable for saving patients during the critical 'golden hour,' soon after an accident, when expert medical care is vital.
  • This initiative will be a boon for Uttarakhand, a state that attracts tourists, pilgrims, and adventure enthusiasts annually, while also contending with natural disasters.
• The commencement of another project was also announced, responding to the state government's request for air connectivity from Hindon Air Base to Pithoragarh.

Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS)

• It is called Project Sanjeevani; a helicopter will be deployed to provide emergency medical services at AIIMS Rishikesh.
  • It encompasses multiple initiatives targeting various sectors such as education, environment, agriculture, and livestock healthcare.
• The helicopter will be based at the hospital at 20-minute notice and will have a service covering an area of 150 km radius.