Bhubaneswar: Odisha is set to open two new government medical colleges in Talcher and Phulbani, with operations expected to begin before the 2025-26 academic session.

During a high-level meeting chaired by State Health Secretary Aswathy S, officials reviewed the progress of these institutions and addressed pending requirements. The meeting focused on ensuring that Pabitra Mohan Pradhan Medical College and Hospital (PMPMCH) in Talcher, Angul district, and Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Phulbani, Kandhamal district, are fully prepared for operation.

Key Discussions and Preparations

Officials conducted the meeting via videoconferencing on Thursday, emphasizing the readiness of infrastructure, equipment, and logistics. District Collectors of Angul and Kandhamal have been directed to hold weekly meetings to accelerate pending work and ensure timely completion.

The meeting included several key figures, such as:

• Poma Tudu—Managing Director, OSMCL

• Abdaal M. Akhtar—Angul Collector

• Amrit Ruturaj—Kandhamal Collector

• Bijay Kumar Mohapatra—Director of Health Services

• Santosh Mishra—Director of Medical Education & Training

• Usharani Sahoo—Additional Secretary

• Prof. Dr. Kirtirekha Mohapatra—Dean & Principal, PMPMCH

• Prof. Dr. Debaprasad Mohanty—Dean, GMCH Phulbani

Infrastructure and Admission Plans

State Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling confirmed that both colleges will begin MBBS admissions in the 2025-26 academic session. The Government Medical College and Hospital in Phulbani, built on 50 acres, is nearing completion at a total cost of ?548 crore.

Click this link M.Sc Toxicology

Both institutions have applied for approval from the National Medical Commission (NMC) to start MBBS admissions. Santosh Kumar, Director of Medical Education & Training, stated, “We are prepared to begin admissions in both hospitals with 200 seats each. Once we receive NMC approval, we will start the process.”

Increase in MBBS Seats in Odisha

Odisha currently offers 2,450 MBBS seats across its medical colleges. With the addition of 200 new seats in Talcher and Phulbani, the total will rise to 2,650, providing more opportunities for aspiring medical students.

This expansion marks a significant step in strengthening Odisha’s healthcare education system.