Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma held a review meeting on Friday regarding the construction of two new medical colleges in the state. Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh provided updates on the progress, stating that infrastructure development for both Tura and Shillong medical colleges is advancing well.
Lyngdoh acknowledged some recent hurdles in fast-tracking infrastructure development, but these issues have been addressed through coordinated efforts involving key departments such as PHE, Power, and PWD.
The Health Minister announced plans to visit Uttar Pradesh to study their model of medical college development, which has received assistance from the Government of India (GOI). “I will visit Uttar Pradesh to understand the model they have adopted with GOI’s assistance in building six medical colleges. I will share my insights upon return,” Lyngdoh stated.
Regarding the Shillong Medical College, Lyngdoh noted that construction is progressing rapidly. The government anticipates that Tura Medical College will likely be operational by 2026, and Shillong Medical College is expected to be functional by September 2026.
“I can’t provide a definitive timeframe as we’re still working on essential infrastructure. If all goes well, we expect Shillong Medical College to be operational by September 2026,” Lyngdoh added.
She highlighted the importance of establishing proper service rules to ensure eligible doctors are onboard and that these rules allow doctors to function as educators. The state government will examine various models for both teaching and non-teaching doctors, including retirement plans.
The National Medical Council (NMC) inspections are pending, and preparations are underway for these assessments. The state government is also exploring affiliations with state-owned universities, considering options like Williamson Sangma University after delays with NEHU.
Several consultations with current doctors have been held, and an Expression of Interest will be opened to recruit eligible retired doctors, including those with military backgrounds. “This looks promising. We aim to act more and talk less, with the Chief Minister discussing these matters with the GOI,” Lyngdoh said.
The government is awaiting the stabilization of the new government formation to provide more concrete information.
“But to keep you informed, we are committed to our plans for medical colleges. If everything goes as planned, we hope to have these colleges ready for the 2025 session,” Lyngdoh concluded.
Tura Medical College
Tura Medical College, a greenfield project, faces more challenges due to its remote location and infrastructure needs. Connectivity and other operational obstacles are being addressed by the government.
Shillong Medical College
Shillong Medical College, a brownfield project, utilizes existing facilities such as Ganesh Das Hospital, Pasteur Institute, and Shillong Civil Hospital. There are also plans to expand Shillong Civil Hospital.
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