40 Medical Colleges Lose Recognition for Non-Compliance, 100 More Under Scrutiny

In recent months, approximately 40 medical colleges across India have lost their recognition due to alleged non-compliance with the standards set by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Additionally, around 100 more medical colleges in states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Assam, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry, and West Bengal are expected to face similar action, according to official sources cited by PTI.

These colleges were found to be in violation of established norms during inspections conducted by the Undergraduate Medical Education Board of the Commission. The lapses identified included deficiencies related to CCTV cameras, Aadhaar-linked biometric attendance procedures, and faculty rolls.

This development comes at a time when the government has been taking various measures to increase the number of medical seats in the country. One such initiative is the centrally-sponsored scheme for the establishment of new medical colleges by upgrading district/referral hospitals. Out of the 157 approved colleges, 94 are already functional.

According to government data, the number of medical colleges has significantly risen since 2014. Minister of State for Health, Bharati Pravin Pawar, informed the Rajya Sabha that the count of medical colleges has increased by 69%, from 387 before 2014 to 654 currently. The number of MBBS seats has witnessed a surge of 94%, from 51,348 before 2014 to 99,763 at present, while the number of PG seats has increased by 107%, from 31,185 before 2014 to 64,559 now.

However, the derecognition of these colleges will considerably reduce the number of medical seats, potentially leading to a crisis in the country’s healthcare system.

Earlier, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had cautioned that action would be taken against medical colleges that fail to comply with rules or maintain adequate faculty. He emphasized the importance of providing quality education to students and producing competent doctors.

The loss of recognition for these medical colleges highlights the significance of adhering to established standards in medical education. It serves as a reminder that maintaining compliance is crucial for ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services and producing skilled medical professionals. The concerned authorities must address the deficiencies promptly to prevent any negative impact on the overall medical education landscape in India.