The State government proposed to open eight new medical colleges, but the National Medical Commission (NMC) has not yet given permission for them. The counseling for these colleges is set to begin at the end of this month. The Directorate of Medical Education submitted applications for the new colleges in places like Yadadri, Gadwal, Quthbullapur, Narsampet, Narayanpet, Mulugu, Medak, and Maheshwaram. The NMC reviewed the applications virtually and made suggestions for improvements, but permission is still pending.
In previous years, the NMC granted permission for new medical colleges well before counseling began. This year, the delay in permission has created uncertainty about the availability of medical seats. If approved, these new colleges could provide around 400 seats for students in Telangana. With tough competition for medical seats and thousands of students taking the NEET exam, the need for more seats is clear.
Currently, there are a total of 8,515 MBBS seats in government and private medical colleges in the State. This includes 3,915 seats in government colleges and 4,600 in private colleges. Over 77,000 students took the NEET exam this year, with more than 47,000 qualifying. The student-to-seat ratio is 1:6, but with the potential addition of 400 seats from the new colleges, this ratio could improve to 1:5.
Officials have requested the NMC to make a decision soon so that the academic year can start on time. The Commission has indicated that a decision will be made by the end of the month. The delay is attributed to controversies surrounding the NEET exam. Classes for the new academic year are expected to begin in August or September, and officials are optimistic about receiving a positive response from the NMC.
