Dr. Nikhil Tandon Appointed As Interim Director Of AIIMS Delhi

India’s premier medical institute has a new interim head, and it’s a familiar face from within. Dr. Nikhil Tandon, currently serving as Dean (Academic) and Head of Endocrinology at AIIMS Delhi, has been given additional charge as the institute’s Director following a key leadership transition. The appointment comes after Dr. M. Srinivas stepped down from the role to take up a full-time position as a member of NITI Aayog, triggering a swift administrative reshuffle at AIIMS. With the top post now vacant, the institute has opted for continuity over disruption, placing the responsibility in the hands of someone already deeply embedded in its academic and clinical ecosystem.According to the official memorandum issued on April 27, Dr. Tandon will

function as the acting Director with immediate effect. However, this is not a long-term appointment. The arrangement is temporary, set for a period of up to 6 months or until a regular Director is appointed, whichever comes earlier. Interestingly, the role comes without any additional financial perks. The memorandum mentions, "Dr. Nikhil Tandon will not be entitled to any additional remuneration/honorarium for the above additional assignment." Which means taking on one of the most high-pressure administrative positions in India’s healthcare system, Dr. Tandon will continue in this capacity without extra remuneration.That said, the choice signals stability. With over two decades in public healthcare, Dr. Tandon is no stranger to AIIMS’ inner workings. A leading endocrinologist, his work has focused on cardio-metabolic diseases, diabetes, and large-scale public health research, areas that are increasingly central to India’s healthcare priorities. He has also been closely involved in academic leadership at the institute, making this transition less of a jump and more of an expansion of responsibilities.The move ensures that AIIMS Delhi, often seen as the backbone of India’s public healthcare system, continues to function without administrative gaps while the search for a permanent Director begins. For now, the message is clear: steady hands, familiar leadership, and business as usual at the top. The appointment is expected to keep ongoing research, patient care, and academic schedules on track without any immediate disruption or policy shifts.