Vivekanand Medical Research Trust (VMRT), commonly known as Vivekanand Trust, is a brainchild of Sh. Shanta Kumar – former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament, Himachal Pradesh. The philanthropist and a statesman, Sh. Shanta Kumar hails from a small village near Palampur, Garh-Basti in District Kangra of Himachal Pradesh.

In the backdrop of the inadequate healthcare infrastructure of the locality, Sh. Shanta Kumar led from the front and constituted Vivekanand Medical Research Trust (VMRT). He not only brought together a formidable pack of intellectuals together but also motivated the public at large and raised money to establish twin health institutions of global eminence in Palampur.

Subsequently, in the year 2012, Vivekanand Medical Institute was dedicated into public service by the trust. Vivekanand Medical Institute renders a confluence of expert consultants from varied fields of Medicine, Surgery, Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Neurosurgery, Critical Care, Orthopaedics, Dental Surgery, Radiology, Otorhinolaryngology (E.N.T), Urology, Dermatology, Nephrology etc. It is equipped with a formidable strength of medical and allied professionals and the latest technology which helps in delivering quality care. A state-of-the-art Cath-lab was added recently to strengthen the overall infrastructure of the hospital and it has become a boon to the cardiac patients of the locality.

The vision for establishing VMRT Capt. Saurabh Kalia College of Nursing was conceived by Dr. N.K. Kalia, father of Kargil war hero Capt. Saurabh Kalia. With a deep desire to honor his son's sacrifice and serve the community, Dr. Kalia shared his vision with Shri Shanta Kumar, the then Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh. Under the supreme guidance and support of Shri Shanta Kumar and Mr. J.P. Gaur, Chairman of Jaypee Group, the vision was embraced, even amidst changing circumstances.

With the leadership of Air Commodore Dr. Vimal Rai Dubey, Unit Head of VMI, and the dedicated efforts of the college staff, they acted as true alchemists, transforming this idea into a remarkable reality. Their tireless work ensured that the foundation of this prestigious institution was successfully laid.

In 2023, the dream materialized, and the institute quickly garnered widespread support and admiration. In its very first year, the college achieved full enrollment in its inaugural batch, a testament to its strong foundation and the trust of the community.

The bond between the people of Himachal Pradesh and the institute is profound. Named in honor of one of their bravest sons, Capt. Saurabh Kalia, the college has swiftly built a reputation for excellence. It symbolizes not only educational empowerment but also a deep emotional connection, which continues to drive its growth and success.