September 29, 2025, Gangtok — On World Heart Day, Sikkim marked a decade of advanced cardiac care as leading cardiologist Dr. D.P. Rai completed ten years of transforming heart healthcare in the state through modern interventional cardiology services.
Dr. D.P. Rai, Sikkim’s first interventional cardiologist and Head of Cardiology Department at STNM Hospital, has elevated the state to become a regional leader in cardiac care through his dedication and expertise.
Since 2019, over 4,000 successful cardiac and vascular interventions have been performed at the new STNM Hospital in Gangtok. The state-run multi-specialty hospital now stands as a beacon of advanced cardiac care for Sikkim and neighbouring states.
A significant number of patients visiting STNM Hospital come from outside Sikkim, contributing to the state’s growing reputation in medical and wellness tourism, said officials.
Dr. Rai chose to establish the cardiology department at STNM Hospital in 2019 after serving at Central Referral Hospital Manipur, Tadong. He currently leads a team including Dr. Pelden Wangchuk, Bhutia and Dr. Gyalden Norbu, delivering world-class cardiac care.
The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge technology and high-end infrastructure for cardiac and vascular procedures. Over 4,000 successful interventions have been conducted in the hospital’s high-end Cath Lab OT.
“We have one of the highest recovery rates in the region for heart attacks, cardiac arrest, and heart failure,” stated Dr. Rai proudly.
Grateful heart patients frequently express deep appreciation for Dr. Rai and his team. They acknowledge not only life-saving work but also Dr. Rai’s decision to serve his home state instead of moving to metropolitan hospitals where earnings would have been significantly higher.
His pioneering efforts have positioned Sikkim as a hub of excellence and medical tourism, generating goodwill and improved outcomes for thousands of patients.
Dr. Rai regularly receives glowing feedback from patients and their families after recovering from near-death stages under his care and expertise.
Dr. Rai expressed heartfelt thanks to Chief Minister, State government, Health Department, STNM Hospital management, and his team for their unwavering support.
“To earn the love, respect, and trust of the people of Sikkim is priceless for me. I remain committed to further strengthening cardiac healthcare in our State,” he said.
His vision and commitment serve as inspiration to healthcare professionals across the region. This progress represents a collective effort made possible by dedication of the entire cardiac care team.
In 2023, Dr. Rai was honoured with the Sikkim Sewa Samman, one of the state’s highest civilian awards, recognizing his exceptional contributions to healthcare.
Originally from Bull-Singtam in South Sikkim, Dr. Rai has regrets about prioritizing service in his home state over more financially rewarding options elsewhere.
“I gave my priority to work in my home State as Sikkim would have been deprived of my service if I had opted to work outside. It was my ethical responsibility to serve my home State. I don’t regret this,” he said.
On World Heart Day, Sikkim expresses gratitude to Dr. D.P. Rai for his ten years of exemplary service and unwavering support from Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay and the State government.