DU Approval for DM (Medical Genetics) at MAMC & Lok Nayak Boosts Delhi’s Advanced Healthcare Ecosystem: Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh

New Delhi: In a significant step towards strengthening super-specialty healthcare services in the national capital, the requisite academic and regulatory approval has been duly conveyed by the University of Delhi for the establishment and operationalisation of the Department of Medical Genetics at Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) and Associated Lok Nayak Hospital, said Delhi Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh.

The newly established Department introduces a highly specialised and future-ready discipline that addresses genetic disorders across the entire human life-course, from fetal and neonatal stages to adulthood and geriatric care, with a major focus on pediatric and rare disease management.

Medical Genetics represents one of the most rapidly evolving frontiers in modern medicine. The Department will enable advanced diagnostics, early risk assessment, and targeted therapeutic interventions through cutting-edge modalities such as Gene Therapy, Antisense Oligonucleotide Therapy, and in-utero therapeutic procedures, bringing globally emerging treatments within reach of patients in Delhi’s public healthcare system.

By integrating seamlessly with Fetal Medicine, Pediatrics, Adult Medicine, and Oncology, the Department is also expected to accelerate progress in Cancer Genetics, where genetic markers are increasingly guiding prognosis, personalized therapies, and precision oncology. This convergence will significantly enhance evidence-based, individualized treatment approaches and improve long-term clinical outcomes.

The approval of two DM (Medical Genetics) super-specialty seats further elevates the academic and clinical stature of MAMC and Lok Nayak Hospital, positioning the institution among the select government centers in the country offering structured training and tertiary-quaternary genetics services. The initiative will contribute to building a skilled workforce of genetic specialists while expanding access to advanced care for complex and rare conditions.

The Department was inaugurated by Chief Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta, reaffirming the Government of NCT of Delhi’s commitment to strengthening public healthcare infrastructure and introducing next-generation medical specialties for citizens.

Reacting on the development,  Health Minister, Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, said, “The establishment of the Department of Medical Genetics is a landmark achievement for Delhi’s healthcare system. With advanced diagnostics, gene-based therapies, and specialized training, we are moving towards precision and preventive medicine that can change lives at the earliest stage. This initiative reflects our commitment to making world-class, technology-driven healthcare accessible to every citizen through our public institutions.”

In another development,  Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta along with the Health Minister on Friday visited a mega blood donation camp organised at Thyagaraj Stadium to mark the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh said, “The enthusiasm witnessed at this mega blood donation camp is truly inspiring. Citizens are voluntarily stepping forward to donate blood, reflecting the spirit of service and patriotism inspired by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Such participation demonstrates a strong sense of social responsibility. The Delhi Government will continue organising similar camps to ensure timely availability of blood for patients in need. At the same time, we are promoting road safety by distributing helmets to donors, reinforcing the message of safety along with service.”