New medical colleges may not take off this session

The state government has decided not to approach the Medical Council of India (MCI) to seek permission for two medical colleges — Patan Medical College in North Gujarat, and Valsad Medical College in South Gujarat — to commence their academic session this year.

Additional Director of Medical Education and Research, Dr P D Vithlani confirmed that the government has decided not to approach MCI as the college buildings are still under construction and are unlikely to be ready in the current year.

Dr Hemixa Rao, Vice-Chancellor of Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University (HNGU) said a proposal was sent to MCI earlier but permission was not granted as some conditions put forth by MCI could not be met.

She said “We have not pushed for the permission for this year though we are fully prepared to start the Patan Medical College.”