Who will be the next KMCRI director? Speculation intensifies

Hubballi, 

Speculation over who will become the next director of the Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute has intensified, with discussions gaining momentum across the institute campus ahead of the retirement of incumbent director Dr Ishwar Hosamani on May 31. Dr Hosamani, who served as director for nearly 11 months, is credited with accelerating several pending development projects at the institute.

Though his tenure was relatively short, sources within the institute said his administration focused on pushing key healthcare initiatives toward implementation, including the establishment of an IVF centre and expansion of various infrastructure projects. KMCRI, regarded as the largest government healthcare institution in North Karnataka, caters to patients from nearly eight surrounding districts.

The 2,404-bed tertiary care hospital is among the biggest government medical institutions in the state and is widely relied upon by economically weaker and middle class patients seeking affordable treatment. With the director’s post considered one of the most influential administrative positions in the region’s public healthcare sector, several senior doctors are reportedly in the race for the coveted position. Among the frontrunners is Dr Arun Kumar C., former Medical Superintendent of KMCRI and current director of the Dharwad Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences.

Known for his administrative skills and result-oriented approach, Dr Arun Kumar played a key role in managing the COVID-19 crisis at KMCRI along with former director Dr Ramalingappa Antartani. Their handling of the three pandemic waves had earned widespread appreciation and significantly improved the institution’s public image.

Another prominent contender is former KMCRI director Dr S.F. Kammar from the Orthopaedics Department, who had served as director before Dr Hosamani took charge. Sources said he is also making efforts to return to the post. Dr Janaki Toravi is also believed to be in the race, while Super Speciality Wing Medical Superintendent Dr Rajashankar has reportedly expressed interest in the position as well. The Karnataka government is expected to finalise the appointment before May 30. In the event of a delay, sources said the principal of the medical college may be given additional charge as director until a permanent appointment is made.