Government prioritizes early functionalization of medical colleges in Talcher and Phulbani

Bhubaneswar:13/2/25: The Government of Odisha is making significant strides toward the early operationalization of two vital medical colleges — Pabitra Mohan Pradhan Medical College & Hospital in Talcher, Angul, and the Government Medical College & Hospital in Phulbani, Kandhamal. The establishment of these institutions is expected to greatly enhance medical services and provide long-awaited healthcare benefits to local communities.

In a virtual meeting held today, Aswathy S., Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health & Family Welfare Department, led a comprehensive discussion to review the progress and address the ongoing requirements for these institutions. The meeting focused on ensuring the readiness of medical buildings and equipment, as well as identifying and addressing any gaps in the process. The primary objective is to obtain National Medical Commission (NMC) permission for the admission of 100 MBBS students for the 2025-26 academic year.

To expedite the process, District Collectors and relevant officers from both districts have been directed to hold regular weekly meetings. This will help fast-track pending actions and ensure compliance with NMC norms. This collaborative approach highlights the government’s commitment to the swift functionalization of these medical colleges.
The state government is dedicated to enhancing medical education and healthcare services, with a particular focus on underserved areas. By accelerating the operationalization of these two medical colleges, the government aims to improve healthcare infrastructure and expand access to quality medical care across Odisha

Key officials including, Dr. Brundha D, Mission Director, NHM (Odisha), Dr. Poma Tudu, Managing Director of OSMCL; Abdaal M. Akhtar, Angul Collector; Amrit Ruturaj, Kandhamal Collector; Dr. Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Special Secretary-cum-Director of Health Services; Dr. Santosh Mishra, Director of Medical Education & Training; Dr. Usharani Sahoo, Additional Secretary, H & FW Department; Prof. (Dr.) Kirtirekha Mohapatra, Dean and Principal of Pabitra Mohan Pradhan Medical College, Talcher; Prof. (Dr.) Narendra Behera, Dean and Principal of Government Medical College, Phulbani; Chief Engineer (Buildings), Odisha; Director (Personnel), MCL; General Manager, NBCC; along with senior officials from both districts, including CDM and PHOs, and Superintendent Engineers attended the meeting.