D.Y. Patil Leads Medical Education Innovation | Pulse 2026
WATCH: https://bit.ly/DYPatil-M4I
Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, shares her perspective at Pulse 2026 – an ambitious platform uniting healthcare, education, and innovation. In this conversation, she discusses Maharashtra’s evolving healthcare ecosystem, India’s push toward self-reliance in medical technology, and how simulation-driven education is shaping the next generation of medical professionals.
Pulse – Platform for Unified Learning, Skills, Health and Education – is a first-of-its-kind initiative. Given D.Y. Patil’s key role in medical education, how do you assess Maharashtra’s healthcare system from this platform
We were very excited when we heard about Pulse because it aligns closely with our vision. At D.Y. Patil, our approach has always been student-centric in education, patient-focused in healthcare, and community-based in research.
A platform like Pulse is extremely valuable because it brings together educators, clinicians, innovators, technologists, and policymakers under one roof. This kind of collaboration is a powerful step by the government. By connecting these stakeholders, Maharashtra has the potential to evolve into a strong healthcare hub. With the state’s clinical expertise and supportive policies, this initiative can truly be a game-changer.
India aims to become a ‘Viksit Bharat,’ and that’s not possible without a developed healthcare ecosystem.
Absolutely. India’s healthcare capabilities are among the best in the world. The real challenge has been ensuring last-mile delivery – making sure healthcare reaches everyone effectively.
What’s encouraging is the rapid advancement in areas like organ transplantation, stem cell therapy, and robotic surgery. We are no longer just adopting Western technologies; we are developing indigenous solutions. Many innovations showcased here are made in India, reflecting a shift toward self-reliance and global competitiveness. Initiatives like Pulse help position India on the global healthcare stage.
Since this is a government-led initiative, do you think other states should replicate such events?
This is a strong start, both in scale and participation. However, the real measure of success will be the outcomes – how much transformation it drives, the collaborations it fosters, and how it strengthens healthcare, education, and research.
With strong policy support and stakeholder engagement, I’m confident this initiative will grow and deliver results. Other states can certainly adopt this model. While tangible outcomes may take some time, we are clearly on the right track.
Can you tell us about the exhibits at your booth?
At D.Y. Patil, we are deeply committed to advancing medical education. Today, the focus is on competency-based medical education, where we ensure that graduates are fully skilled in critical procedures – whether it’s CPR, suturing, inserting a Ryle’s tube, or conducting a delivery.
At the same time, there is growing sensitivity around patient safety, with an expectation of zero error. This makes simulation-based training essential.
At our stall, you’ll see students practicing on high-fidelity mannequins in simulated, high-stress scenarios. These systems provide real-time feedback, helping students build confidence, speed, and precision.
We have developed a 20,000 sq. ft. skills and simulation center equipped with advanced mannequins, task trainers, a 3D bioprinting lab, and airway management facilities. It represents a powerful integration of technology, healthcare, and education, ultimately improving the quality of our graduates.
This commitment is reflected in our NIRF ranking, where D.Y. Patil Medical College stands at 12th, making us a significant contributor to medical education in Maharashtra.
