Shillong: Meghalaya has taken a major step in strengthening its healthcare sector with the National Medical Commission (NMC) granting the Letter of Permission (LoP) for the state’s first government medical college in Shillong.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the approval as a “historic day” for the state, marking the fulfilment of a decades-old aspiration. The college has been sanctioned an initial intake of 50 MBBS seats.
Admissions will be conducted as per the national NEET-UG schedule, with counselling beginning on September 4, followed by the start of classes on September 27, 2025.
For years, Meghalaya has struggled with a shortage of doctors and the absence of a state-run medical college, forcing students to seek opportunities outside the state. The new institution aims to bridge that gap by providing both education and advanced healthcare facilities locally.
The LoP, considered a critical approval for new medical colleges, was granted after NMC inspections verified the readiness of infrastructure, teaching hospitals, laboratories, and faculty appointments.
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Officials said the medical college and its attached hospital will not only open up opportunities for aspiring doctors from Meghalaya but also improve healthcare delivery across rural and remote areas.
In the long term, it is expected to boost the state’s medical workforce and reduce dependency on external institutions.
The project, a key priority of the state government, is being hailed as a transformative move that will enhance access to specialized healthcare and strengthen Meghalaya’s public health system for years to come.
