Union Cabinet Approves ₹15,034 Crore Scheme to Add Over 10,000 Medical Seats by 2029

In a significant move to bolster India’s healthcare infrastructure, the Union Cabinet has approved a ₹15,034 crore scheme aimed at increasing the number of medical seats across the country. This initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to enhance medical education and address the growing demand for healthcare professionals.

Key Details of the Scheme:

• Total Seats to Be Added: The scheme will add a total of 10,023 medical seats, comprising 5,023 undergraduate (MBBS) and 5,000 postgraduate (PG) seats.
• Implementation Timeline: The expansion is set to be completed by the year 2028–29.
• Funding Allocation: The total estimated expenditure is ₹15,034.50 crore, with the central government contributing ₹10,303.20 crore and state governments providing ₹4,731.30 crore.
• Per Seat Investment: The cost ceiling per seat has been raised to ₹1.50 crore to ensure improved infrastructure and facilities.

Strategic Focus Areas:

• Upgradation of Existing Institutions: The scheme focuses on strengthening and upgrading existing state and central government medical colleges, standalone postgraduate institutes, and government hospitals.
• Cost-Effective Expansion: By leveraging existing infrastructure, the initiative aims to provide a cost-effective solution to expand tertiary healthcare capacity.
• Addressing Regional Disparities: The expansion is expected to improve healthcare access in underserved areas, including Tier 2 cities and rural regions, thereby reducing regional disparities in medical education and healthcare services.

Broader Implications:

• Enhanced Doctor Availability: The addition of over 10,000 medical seats will significantly increase the number of trained medical professionals in the country, addressing the shortage of doctors.
• Improved Healthcare Access: With more medical graduates and specialists entering the workforce, the quality and accessibility of healthcare services are expected to improve nationwide.
• Employment Generation: The expansion will also create numerous employment opportunities in the healthcare sector, including teaching, administrative, and support roles.

Conclusion:
The approval of this ₹15,034 crore scheme marks a pivotal step in strengthening India’s medical education system and healthcare infrastructure. By increasing the number of medical seats and enhancing existing institutions, the government aims to meet the growing healthcare needs of the population, especially in underserved areas. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access and quality across the country.