The primary objective of the DM (Anaesthesia) programme is to prepare the resident for the role of an independent consultant physician. Such a consultant should feel comfortable functioning as a specialist in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care at any tertiary care facility. The resident must acquire a working knowledge of the theoretical basis of the specialty, including its foundations in the basic medical sciences and research. Training must also encompass the provision of anaesthesia services for all age groups in varied clinical situations.

The DM facilitates the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to a level appropriate to an ophthalmic specialist, who has been fully prepared to begin his/her career as an independent ophthalmologist. The programmes also seeks to promote the appreciation of audit and research.