Surge in Medical Seats Signals Robust Growth in India’s Healthcare Infrastructure

In a recent announcement, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Mansukh Mandaviya disclosed data illustrating a substantial surge in the number of medical seats across India, marking a significant improvement in the country’s healthcare infrastructure over the past decade.

According to Minister Mandaviya’s tweet on his official Twitter handle, India has experienced a more than twofold increase in both MBBS and PG medical seats in the last 10 years. The data revealed that the total number of MBBS seats in India has risen to 108,940, and PG seats have reached 70,674, compared to the 2014 figures of 51,348 seats.

Highlighting this growth trajectory, the Health Minister stated that an impressive 57,592 new MBBS seats were introduced between 2014 and 2024. The expansion was particularly notable in PG medical seats, with the addition of 39,489 seats during the same period.

Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the government’s commitment to raising awareness and ensuring healthcare services reach the last mile. He highlighted India’s unique four-tier healthcare system, operating from grassroots to primary to secondary to tertiary levels. The establishment of institutes like Ayushman Arogya Mandir in rural and urban areas played a crucial role in this strategy.

“Differing from other nations, India has a four-tier healthcare system that functions from grassroots to primary to secondary to tertiary, wherein institutes such as Ayushman Arogya Mandir have been established across rural and urban areas,” Dr. Mandaviya stated.

These institutes not only provide a wide range of healthcare services but also act as connectors, facilitating secondary and tertiary level consultations at their respective locations. This approach aims to save patients time and money while delivering services and care with ease at affordable rates.

Furthermore, the Minister reiterated the government’s persistent dedication to ensuring equal and accessible healthcare. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat have been implemented to make healthcare services more affordable and available to everyone in society.

The significant increase in medical seats underscores the government’s strong commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure, ensuring fair access to healthcare, and strengthening the country’s medical facilities to meet the growing needs of the people.