Published Jul 23, 2025 | 8:02 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 23, 2025 | 8:02 PM
Shivamogga to Be Developed as Health Hub for Malnad Region(Representational image)
In a significant push to boost healthcare infrastructure in Karnataka, the state government has unveiled plans to transform Shivamogga into a regional health hub catering to the entire Malnad region. The decision was made during a high-level review meeting at Vikasa Soudha, chaired by Medical Education Minister Dr. Sharanaprakash R. Patil and District In-Charge Minister Madhu Bangarappa.
The ministers reviewed the current facilities at Shivamogga Institute of Medical Sciences (SIMS) and Meggan Hospital, both of which are operating under heavy patient load. “SIMS and Meggan are overburdened, with doctors under immense pressure. To relieve them and improve care quality, we’ll invest in building new specialty and super-specialty hospitals,” said Dr. Patil.
The proposed health hub model envisions a cluster of medical institutions—including medical colleges and multi-tier hospitals—strategically developed to serve both Shivamogga and 26 surrounding taluks. With its strong road, rail, and air connectivity, Shivamogga is seen as ideally located to become the healthcare nucleus of the Malnad region.
“Like Kalaburagi in Kalyana Karnataka, Shivamogga will now become the medical backbone for Malnad,” Dr. Patil stated.
Madhu Bangarappa pointed out that although Shivamogga has only seven taluks, its hospitals serve patients from a much wider region, creating an urgent need for expansion. “Upgrading facilities is no longer optional—it’s essential to deliver equitable, quality healthcare,” he said.
