Inspired by his parents' sacrifices, Dr. Nishat Akhtar rose from humble beginnings in Aligarh to become a UK trained anesthesiologist. As an Associate Professor at VIMS, he mentors students and ensures advanced, free healthcare for the needy through his dedication, and a commitment to service.

Dr. Nishat Akhtar serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS), Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh. He plays a crucial role in educating and training both MBBS and postgraduate students pursuing MD and MS degrees.

Dr. Akhtar’s extensive education and experience, both in India and abroad, make him a valuable mentor for students at VIMS, ensuring they receive quality training and practical exposure in Anesthesiology.

Dr. Akhtar’s responsibilities include overseeing cases in the operation theatre, monitoring students' progress, and ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for the students. Dr. Akhtar conducts teaching sessions for MBBS students and also trains postgraduate students in administering anesthesia. He educates them on how to give anaesthesia, to complete the requirements for an operation, how to check the vitals of the patient, and their fitness, after which the patient is operated upon in the OT.

Dr. Nishat Akhtar describes that Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS) is a private institution located in Gajraula, in the Amroha district of Uttar Pradesh, offering both MBBS and postgraduate studies. Currently, approximately 250 students are enrolled in the MBBS program at the college. After completing their internships and NEET-PG exams, the students are further enrolled in the MD and MS programs each year. While the fee here is higher compared to government institutions, VIMS is considered a reputable private medical college that has significantly improved over the past 4-5 years. The first batch of postgraduates from the institution will be passing out soon. Many students from various regions pursue their postgraduate studies here, receive training, and, after completing their education, return to their hometowns to work.

The treatment at VIMS is especially beneficial for patients from the Amroha region. VIMS provides free treatment to many patients, particularly those who cannot afford treatment at private hospitals. This allows underprivileged individuals to receive medical attention they would otherwise be unable to access. In addition to medical care, patients are provided with one free meal a day, and their attendants also receive food through the langar service.

VIMS offers specialised services in General Medicine, Surgery, Anaesthesia, Neurosurgery, Plastic Surgery, and Cardiothoracic Surgery, along with a division of Psychiatry and advanced diagnostic facilities such as CT scans and MRIs. It has become an important healthcare centre for the people of Amroha, offering high-quality care and free treatment for those in need.

Originally from Aligarh, Dr. Akhtar completed his schooling in Aligarh itself and pursued his MBBS degree at the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, affiliated to the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). After completing his MBBS, he practiced in the United Kingdom for a couple of years, gaining valuable international experience. He later returned to AMU to specialise in Anesthesiology, earning his MD degree.

Subsequently, he started working at the Tirthankar Mahavir Medical College (TMMCRC) in Moradabad as an assistant professor. After that, he worked in a private hospital in Sambhal, and for 5-6 years he has been working at VIMS, Gajraula. He joined VIMS as an Assistant Professor and is currently working as an Associate Professor at the institute.

Recalling his childhood memories, Dr. Akhtar shares that all his friends hail from Aligarh itself and are currently working at different places in the medical fraternity itself.

Dr. Nishat Akhtar reflects on the challenges his family faced during his upbringing. He underlines the inspiration of his late parents in his life. Despite financial struggles, his father managed a small business while prioritising his children’s education. Dr. Nishat attributes much of his success to the values and lessons he learnt from his parents, who worked tirelessly to provide for their family.

To students interested in pursuing a medical career, Dr. Akhtar emphasises the importance of commitment and a deep passion for the field.

To the patients in the nearby vicinity, he shares that VIMS can be a good option for the best treatment available in Gajraula free of charge. He also shares a message for patients and caregivers that if a condition cannot be treated elsewhere or if treatment costs are prohibitive, he strongly recommends seeking care at VIMS. He highlights that VIMS offers free, high-quality treatment and excellent facilities for those in need. Additionally, Dr. Nishat urges nearby private nursing homes to refer patients with complex cases to VIMS, where advanced treatment options are available.