Shillong: The Meghalaya government has announced plans to introduce an Act to regulate government and private medical colleges in the state. This decision was taken during a state Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.
The move comes after the PA Sangma International Medical College of the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) received approval from the National Medical Commission (NMC) to commence MBBS courses. The medical college, which is the first private institution of its kind in Meghalaya, will start its courses in the 2024-25 academic year with an intake capacity of 150 students.
The foundation of the PA Sangma International Medical College & Hospital was laid on October 3, marking a significant milestone in the state’s medical education sector. The new Act is expected to help regulate aspects such as seat allocations and course fees for both government and private medical institutions.
Cabinet Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh stated that the state government will oversee and monitor these aspects, ensuring standardization and compliance. She added that another meeting would be scheduled to discuss the future course of action for implementing the regulations.
Providing updates on ongoing medical education projects, Lyngdoh emphasized the steady progress of the Shillong Medical College. She noted that the project is on track for completion by 2025-26, highlighting a positive outlook for enhancing medical infrastructure in the state.
Additionally, Lyngdoh spoke about the Tura Medical College, where infrastructure development is reported to be advancing rapidly. “The Tura project is progressing exceptionally well, with the construction far advanced. Both the Chief Minister and I have recently been briefed on the site’s developments,” she said, reflecting optimism about the future of medical education in Meghalaya.
The introduction of the regulatory Act aims to ensure that the state’s expanding medical education sector adheres to high standards, benefiting aspiring medical professionals and strengthening healthcare services across Meghalaya.
Read More: Arunachal Athletes Shine at Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship