India’s Medical Colleges Surge: From 387 to 819 in Just 11 Years

The number of medical colleges in India has significantly increased from 387 to 819 over the past 11 years, according to Union Health Minister JP Nadda.

During the 50th Annual Convocation Ceremony of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), he noted that the total number of undergraduate medical seats has risen from 51,000 to 129,000, while postgraduate seats have increased from 31,000 to 78,000.

Nadda also announced plans to add another 75,000 seats at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels within the next five years.

He praised the graduating students and acknowledged AIIMS for its vital role in advancing medical science and education in India.

The minister encouraged the new doctors to provide compassionate care, maintain high ethical standards, and innovate to address the evolving healthcare needs of the country.

Furthermore, he highlighted progress in maternal and child health, with the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) declining from 130 to 88 and the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) dropping from 39 to 27, as per the Sample Registration Survey (SRS) data.

Significant reductions were also reported in the Under-five Mortality Rate (U5MR) and Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR), which exceeded global averages by 42% and 39%, respectively.

Nadda mentioned that the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in India has decreased by 17.7%, which is more than double the global rate of 8.3% according to The Lancet Report.

In conclusion, he urged the graduates to contribute to academic research and uphold the esteemed legacy of AIIMS by excelling in their professional and ethical practices, encouraging lifelong learning and innovation in medical science.