Around 150 medical colleges across the country could lose recognition: sources

New Delhi:

Sources say about 150 medical colleges in the country are likely to lose recognition from the National Medical Commission – the regulator of medical education and healthcare professionals in the country – due to understaffing and non-compliance with rules. 40 medical colleges have already lost their recognition and have to prove to the NMC that they comply with established standards.

The list of medical colleges on NMC’s radar includes those in Gujarat, Assam, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Tripura and West Bengal.

The deficiencies were uncovered during an inspection conducted by the Commission’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board over a month, examining CCTV cameras, flaws in Adhar-linked biometric attendance procedures and faculty rosters.

According to sources, the colleges did not meet criteria to operate as a medical college, including proper installation and functioning of cameras. The biometric setup was not working properly. Many positions in the faculties were also found to be vacant during the inspection.

According to sources, the medical colleges have the opportunity to appeal. The first appeal can be filed with the NMC within 30 days. If the appeal is denied, they can contact the Union Ministry of Health.