Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has formally requested Union Health Minister J P Nadda’s support to establish a new medical college in the state. The initiative aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and expand medical education opportunities for students while improving healthcare access for citizens.
Read More: Eastern Naga Students’ Federation directs schools to ignore strike call
CM Manik Saha emphasizes urgent need
During a meeting with Union Health Minister J P Nadda in New Delhi, CM Manik Saha stressed the urgent need for a new medical college. He noted that the state’s existing medical institutions are operating at full capacity and cannot meet the growing demand for trained healthcare professionals.
Saha highlighted that the new college would fill both educational and healthcare gaps. He said, “Tripura requires more doctors and medical staff, especially in rural areas. A new college will train professionals and improve healthcare services statewide.”
Role of Union Health Ministry
The Union Health Ministry has the authority to approve and fund new medical colleges under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). CM Saha requested that Tripura be prioritized under the scheme to ensure timely implementation.
He also assured that the state government would provide land, infrastructure, and administrative support for the project. Coordination with the Ministry, he added, will meet all technical and regulatory requirements efficiently.
Addressing healthcare challenges
Tripura faces several healthcare challenges, including shortages of specialized doctors, limited diagnostic facilities, and uneven service distribution. While primary healthcare has improved, the state still lacks advanced tertiary care institutions.
The proposed medical college would include a teaching hospital with modern facilities, offering citizens access to high-quality care close to home. CM Saha also emphasized that it would help retain local talent, encouraging students to pursue medical education within the state.
Economic and educational benefits
The new college would create employment for faculty, administrative staff, and support personnel. Additionally, it would attract healthcare industries, research centers, and allied services, contributing to Tripura’s development.
CM Saha pointed out that the college would motivate young aspirants to pursue medical careers locally. It aligns with the state’s broader aim to improve literacy, professional skills, and technical education among youth.
Tripura’s healthcare progress
Tripura has invested in upgrading hospitals, expanding telemedicine, and introducing modern diagnostic technologies. Yet, current medical colleges cannot meet the state’s long-term needs.
Limited student intake forces many aspiring doctors to study outside Tripura, resulting in a brain drain. CM Saha emphasized that a new college would retain talent and build a strong healthcare workforce locally.
Steps for project approval
CM Saha urged Union Health Minister J P Nadda to fast-track approval for the new medical college. He proposed forming a joint committee with the Ministry, state officials, and experts to finalize the location, infrastructure, and project timeline.
He also suggested combining central assistance with state contributions for sustainable funding. Transparent monitoring and strict adherence to quality standards, he added, are critical for the project’s success.
Public support and optimism
The proposal has received wide support from citizens, healthcare professionals, and educational organizations. Many believe it will enhance healthcare access and strengthen medical education in Tripura.
Community leaders and social groups urged the state and Union governments to prioritize the project, highlighting the importance of modern medical facilities and local education opportunities.
Strengthening healthcare infrastructure
CM Saha reiterated that the medical college will serve as a cornerstone of Tripura’s healthcare system. It will complement existing hospitals, primary health centers, and diagnostic facilities to create a comprehensive network.
The initiative focuses not only on infrastructure but also on building human capacity, promoting research, and fostering innovation in medical science. The college will provide specialized training, advanced treatment, and community outreach programs to improve public health outcomes.
Ensuring timely implementation
Officials emphasized timely implementation to avoid delays. Clear timelines and phase-wise construction plans have been proposed. Early planning includes site selection, resource allocation, and faculty recruitment.
Regular updates to the public and transparent reporting will ensure accountability. The state government aims to demonstrate efficiency and collaboration with the Union Ministry.
Long-term impact
The new medical college will reduce dependency on institutions outside the state. It will provide better opportunities for students and improve healthcare delivery. Over time, it will create skilled medical professionals who can serve both urban and rural communities.
CM Saha highlighted that the initiative is an investment in Tripura’s social and economic growth. By creating infrastructure and expanding education, the state ensures a healthier population and a stronger workforce.
CM Manik Saha’s request to Union Health Minister J P Nadda underscores Tripura’s urgent need for a new medical college. The project will address healthcare shortages, expand education, and strengthen the state’s medical workforce.
With cooperation between the state and Union governments, Tripura’s new medical college is set to become a reality. It promises to provide quality healthcare, professional training, and long-term benefits for generations of residents.
Read More: Assam issues eviction notices to 1,200 families in Doboka forest