National Medical Commission approves 10,650 new MBBS seats; boosts medical education capacity nationwide

In a major stride toward strengthening India’s healthcare education system, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has approved 10,650 new MBBS seats for the academic year 2024–25. The expansion comes in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day 2024 pledge to create 75,000 new medical seats over the next five years, aimed at meeting the country’s growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.

The approval accompanies the establishment of 41 new medical colleges, raising the total number of medical institutions in India to 816. According to NMC Chief Dr. Abhijat Sheth, the Commission received 170 proposals for expanding undergraduate (UG) capacity—41 from government colleges and 129 from private institutions. After thorough evaluation, 10,650 new MBBS seats were sanctioned, reflecting the government’s commitment to broadening access to quality medical education.

With this latest addition, the total number of MBBS seats across the country has reached 1,37,600, including those available in Institutes of National Importance (INIs). The move is expected to significantly enhance opportunities for aspiring medical students and help bridge the doctor-to-patient ratio in underserved regions.

The NMC has also received more than 3,500 applications for new and renewed postgraduate (PG) medical seats. Dr. Sheth confirmed that the Commission expects an increase of around 5,000 PG seats, bringing the total to approximately 67,000 PG seats nationwide. Combined with the UG expansion, the total number of new medical seats—both undergraduate and postgraduate—this year is projected to cross 15,000.

While the approval and counselling processes have experienced minor delays, officials assured that all procedures will be completed within the stipulated timelines. To ensure transparency and smooth implementation, the NMC will soon release a blueprint outlining the schedule for accreditation, examinations, and seat matrix approvals for the upcoming academic year.

Additionally, the application portal for the 2025–26 academic session is expected to open in early November, allowing institutions to plan well in advance.

This expansion marks a crucial milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its medical education infrastructure and ensure equitable access to healthcare across the nation.