India’s First-Ever SHAPE 2025 Conference: A Game-Changer in Hospital Planning

The Army Hospital Research & Referral (AHRR), New Delhi, hosted the first-ever Armed Forces National Conference – SHAPE 2025 (Sustainable Hospital Architecture, Planning, Infrastructure, and Equipment) on July 26–27, 2025. The event gathered experts from the armed forces, civil domains, and private sectors to discuss the future of sustainable, resilient, and patient-friendly healthcare infrastructure in India.

Background

Organised by the Department of Hospital Administration at AHRR, SHAPE 2025 marks a pioneering step in hospital planning at a time when India is advancing towards Viksit Bharat@2047. The two-day event was inaugurated by DGAFMS Surg Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and AIIMS Director Dr. M. Srinivas, alongside senior dignitaries. Over 275 participants, including doctors, nurses, administrators, engineers, and architects, contributed to shaping a new vision for healthcare infrastructure.

Significance

The conference took place at a critical juncture as India prepares to mark 100 years of independence. Sustainable healthcare infrastructure is not only vital for reducing environmental impact but also for enhancing national preparedness, patient safety, and health equity. The discussions emphasized that hospitals must evolve from simple treatment centers into climate-conscious, people-centric ecosystems.

Objectives

The main aim of SHAPE 2025 was to move beyond traditional blueprint-based hospital planning towards environmentally conscious and technologically advanced models. The conference also sought to establish a comprehensive doctrine for hospital design and management that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and patient comfort.

Key Features of SHAPE 2025

• Integration of green technologies like solar power, rainwater harvesting, and zero-emission infrastructure.
• Focus on disaster-resilient architecture to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services during crises.
• Emphasis on achieving GRIHA ratings and CFEES certification for eco-friendly construction.
• Adoption of ergonomically designed and healing-oriented spaces to enhance patient recovery.
• Collaboration among armed forces, civil authorities, and private stakeholders for a unified healthcare vision.