With National Medical Commission (NMC) approval, the P.A. Sangma International Medical College and Hospital (PIMC) under the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), marks a major advancement in healthcare and education for the North Eastern region. This new institution is a crucial addition to Meghalaya’s healthcare landscape, aiming to bridge long-standing gaps in medical infrastructure and talent development in a region that has often faced challenges in accessing quality healthcare.
Setting up the PIMC was not without obstacles. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and his government played a pivotal role in addressing the regulatory requirements necessary to secure the college’s launch, including legislation for seat allocation, fee structures, and academic curriculum. Following these efforts, and in alignment with the state’s health department guidelines, PIMC celebrated its official approval on 26 October. Reflecting on the achievement, the Chief Minister said, “This accomplishment reflects the dedication and resilience of everyone involved. I was part of the journey when the USTM Bill was passed in 2008, and the establishment of USTM today showcases the power of teamwork, values, and leadership.”
PIMC’s inaugural MBBS programme will open with 150 seats, an achievement the Chief Minister attributed to collective perseverance. As part of USTM’s commitment to equitable education, 40 of these seats are reserved for the state government, with 25 allocated at standard government fees and 15 offered at a discounted rate of half the university’s fees. Additionally, PIMC will extend a 50% discount on super-specialty medical services to Meghalaya residents and offer free general treatment to ensure widespread access to essential healthcare.
USTM Founder Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque highlighted the institution’s efforts to bridge healthcare gaps in the region, remarking, “This is a historic milestone for USTM and for Meghalaya. With this institution, the need for students and patients to seek medical services outside the region will be greatly reduced. This medical college symbolises our commitment to supporting the healthcare sector of the North East.”
USTM has planned additional healthcare projects alongside the new college. A 1,000-bed super-specialty hospital will soon be established on USTM’s campus, designed to cater to patients needing advanced treatment in cardiology, neurology, nephrology, cancer care, and more. Pro Chancellor Dr Sarbeswar Sahariah noted that the institution intends to collaborate with renowned super-specialists from around the world to develop PIMC into a world-class medical facility.
PIMC has already made headway in healthcare services, performing its first surgery on 24 April this year. The college also introduces USTM’s “Mission Charity” initiative, aimed at providing medical care to economically disadvantaged patients, reflecting USTM’s vision of accessible healthcare for all.
At the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Sangma expressed gratitude to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the NMC for their support in establishing the college. He acknowledged Meghalaya’s ongoing health challenges, but noted the state’s significant progress. Healthcare has its challenges in Meghalaya, but progress is evident which Sangma said is a priority for his government. “Our allocation to the health sector is large making it the highest budgetary allocation in the country.”
The Chief Minister also reflected on his father’s legacy, acknowledging the late P.A. Sangma’s belief that “investing in youth is the greatest investment a government can make.” He paid homage to his father and other state leaders like Dr Donkupar Roy for their resilience in the face of challenges. Adding a personal element to the inauguration, Soradini K. Sangma, wife of the late P.A. Sangma and mother of the Chief Minister, was in attendance to witness the realisation of her husband’s vision.
USTM’s growth continues, with Hoque announcing plans to establish a new dental college in memory of Dr Donkupar Roy, further demonstrating the university’s dedication to comprehensive healthcare education. The addition of PIMC and the upcoming super-specialty hospital are significant strides toward making Meghalaya a major healthcare hub for the North East and beyond.
