Tamil Nadu’s medical education landscape could see a major boost as PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss demands the swift setup of government medical colleges in six key districts. The appeal, made on Sunday, follows the National Medical Commission’s decision to withdraw population-based seat caps that had crippled expansion efforts.
In his statement, Ramadoss pinpointed Kanchipuram, Ranipet, Tirupathur, Mayiladuthurai, Perambalur, and Tenkasi—districts lacking adequate facilities. The relief from NMC’s August 2023 norm, which limited MBBS seats to 100 per 10 lakh people, opens doors previously slammed shut. Tamil Nadu’s 12,650 seats far exceeded the permitted 7,731, freezing all progress.
PMK’s consistent campaign against the rule included direct appeals to PM Modi, leading to a one-year deferral and approvals for pre-2025 applications. The April 27 notification is a game-changer, especially for southern states like Tamil Nadu, reviving stalled initiatives.
Drawing from history, Ramadoss praised the AIADMK’s achievement of 13 colleges in 50 months under Palaniswami. He sharply criticized the Stalin-led DMK for zero additions over four years, even pre-restrictions. With barriers lifted, he called for immediate steps to achieve PMK’s goal of one government medical college per district.
‘Healthcare equity demands urgency,’ Ramadoss emphasized, promising PMK’s relentless advocacy under a proactive government to transform Tamil Nadu’s medical framework and serve millions effectively.
