Kalaburagi: Dr. Sharanprakash Patil, while inaugurating the state conference of rheumatologists in the district, voiced strong disapproval on behalf of the Karnataka state government regarding the National Medical Commission’s (NMC) new requirement for establishing new medical colleges. This requirement, which mandates 100 MBBS seats for every ten lakh population, was criticized for its potential adverse effects on medical education within the state.
Dr. Patil raised apprehensions about the NMC’s adoption of a reactionary and regressive policy without seeking input from the states, which play a pivotal role in the realm of medical education. Karnataka has been actively working to foster an environment for accessible medical education, particularly for economically disadvantaged individuals, with government medical colleges already established in 22 districts. Dr. Patil questioned the fairness of the National Medical Commission introducing such regressive regulations, especially when the state has intentions to set up additional medical colleges in the near future.
When compared to other regions across the country, South Indian states, Karnataka included, have actively cultivated conducive environments for medical education. Dr. Patil emphasized the potential setback that could occur in the realm of medical education in South Indian states if the NMC’s rule is implemented. This concern arises, particularly when these regions have been making significant progress in the field. He underscored the importance of scrutinizing regressive policies that might impede the advancement of medical education in states such as Karnataka.
Through a gazette notification released on the 16th of the previous year, the NMC mandated the incorporation of a 100 MBBS seats per 10 lakh population ratio when formulating regulations and prerequisites for authorizing the establishment of medical colleges beginning in 2024-25. The state government now perceives this requirement as a hindrance to its aspirations of inaugurating new medical colleges, particularly in districts with smaller populations. This stipulation from the NMC holds the potential to impede the state government’s endeavors to extend medical education access to underserved areas.
The Karnataka government’s position on this matter underscores its dedication to delivering inclusive and high-quality medical education, especially to underprivileged communities, and its opposition to what it views as regressive measures that could obstruct this objective.
