Koraput: The much-awaited Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital (SLNMCH) was dedicated to the people of Odisha by CM Naveen Patnaik today.
While inaugurating the fourth government medical college of the State, Patnaik said, "With this medical College, a long-cherished dream has become a reality. Now, the number of MBBS seats in the State has gone up to 850. We expect to add 200 more seats to cross the 1000 mark."
With the launch of the 100-seat medical institute, classes of the first batch of MBBS students have also started. According to sources, construction of class rooms, laboratories, hostels and office rooms has been completed.
The college has been built at a cost of Rs 192 crore and will cater to the healthcare requirements of the people of undivided Koraput district including Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Rayagada and adjoining areas in the region.
The institute would also play a major role in addressing the issue of doctor shortage in the State.
Besides, Pandit Raghunath Murmu Medical College is scheduled to be inaugurated at Baripada on September 6. Two more medical colleges in Balasore and Bolangir are in the pipeline and will become operational from next year, Health Minister Pratap Jena informed.