Leadership

Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai is widely respected for his distinguished contributions to obstetrics and gynaecology, as well as for his leadership in medical education. Prior to joining SMIMS, he served as Professor and Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, under the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). Notably, he was the Founder-Medical Superintendent of the Central Referral Hospital (CRH), Tadong, in 1997.

An alumnus of KMC, Manipal, Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai completed his MBBS in 1985 from KMC Hubballi, followed by a DGO in 1988 and an MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) in 1989. He joined KMC Manipal as faculty in July 1989 and held several leadership positions over the years, including Deputy Director (Planning), MAHE; Professor and Head at Melaka Manipal Medical College, Malaysia; and Head of Department, OBG, KMC Manipal until April 2021.

Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai’s academic involvement spans national and international platforms. He has served as examiner for MBBS, DGO, MD/MS, DNB, FNB, MCh, and PhD examinations, and contributed to academic governance through bodies like MAHE’s Board of Studies and the PG Curriculum Committee of RGUHS, Karnataka.

In recognition of his academic excellence, Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai was conferred Honorary FRCOG by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London in 2023. He is a ten-time recipient of the Best Teacher Award and has won multiple FOGSI research awards.

He has authored three landmark textbooks—Holland and Brews Manual of Obstetrics, Jeffcoate’s Principles of Gynaecology, and Obstetrics & Gynecology PMFU—and published over 200 research articles. Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai has delivered more than 850 lectures globally and pursued advanced training in countries including the USA, UK, Germany, and Singapore.

Since taking over as Dean of Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences (SMIMS) in July 2021, Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai has spearheaded key institutional developments, including NMC recognition, an increase in undergraduate seats, expansion of postgraduate programs, introduction of new allied health programs, and major accreditation efforts. His leadership has also championed digital transformation, strategic growth, and faculty development initiatives.

In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai is admired for his humility, warmth, and creative spirit—he is a passionate singer and avid photographer, deeply appreciated by colleagues and students alike.

Dr. Muralidhar V. Pai, MD, FRCOG, FICOG, FKCOG, FICMCH, now serves as the Pro Vice Chancellor of Sikkim Manipal University, while continuing as Dean of SMIMS. His appointment marks a renewed commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and research-led growth at SMU.