Medical seats to increase as Union Cabinet clears Rs 15,000 cr plan

In a landmark decision to strengthen India’s healthcare system, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a Rs 15,000-crore plan to add 10,000 medical seats across government institutions. The move aims to expand opportunities for medical aspirants, ensure a steady supply of specialist doctors, and improve healthcare access in underserved regions.

This initiative will significantly augment the undergraduate medical capacity; availability of specialist doctors by creating additional postgraduate seats; and enable the introduction of new specialities across Government medical institutions. This will strengthen the overall availability of doctors in the country.

Massive Investment in Medical Education

Of the total expenditure, the central government will contribute Rs 10,303.20 crore, while the states will provide Rs 4,731.30 crore. This cost-sharing structure ensures equitable development while leveraging existing infrastructure in medical colleges and hospitals.

Boosting Doctors and Specialists Nationwide

The schemes are designed not only to increase opportunities for medical aspirants but also to ensure a steady supply of specialists in critical fields. By creating new postgraduate seats, the government aims to introduce new medical specialities, thereby raising the overall standard of healthcare delivery.

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Expected Benefits

More students will have opportunities to pursue medical education within India.

Improved availability of doctors and specialists, particularly in underserved rural and remote areas.

Expansion of healthcare infrastructure leading to job creation for doctors, faculty, paramedics, researchers, and support staff.

Strengthened health system resilience, aligning India with global standards in medical training.

Potential positioning of India as a hub for affordable healthcare and medical education, boosting foreign exchange earnings.

Targets and Implementation

By 2028-29, government institutions are expected to achieve the target of 5,000 additional PG seats and 5,023 MBBS seats. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare will release detailed guidelines for effective implementation.

Background: Building on a Decade of Growth

India today boasts 808 medical colleges, the highest in the world, with a total intake of 1,23,700 MBBS seats. Over the last decade, MBBS seats have grown by 127% and PG seats by 143%. Despite this progress, regional disparities in healthcare remain, particularly in rural and tribal areas. The latest reforms aim to bridge this gap.

 Strengthening India’s Healthcare Future

The Cabinet’s decision represents more than just an increase in numbers; it signals a firm commitment to building a robust and inclusive healthcare system. By investing in education, infrastructure, and workforce development, India is preparing to meet both current and future health challenges, ensuring better healthcare access for 1.4 billion citizens.