Odisha Government Approves 9 New Medical Colleges to Boost Healthcare and Medical Education
In a landmark step to transform medical education and bridge the healthcare gap across the state, the Odisha government has announced the establishment of 9 new medical colleges. These include 4 MBBS colleges, 4 dental colleges, and 1 Ayurvedic college, aimed at enhancing the quality and reach of healthcare services, especially in underrepresented districts.
This major development was confirmed by Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling during the Healthcare Summit 2025, hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Bhubaneswar.
District-wise List of New Medical Colleges in Odisha
S.No. | Type of College | Location (District) | Status |
1 | MBBS College | Jagatsinghpur | Approved |
2 | MBBS College | Bhadrak | Approved |
3 | MBBS College | Dhenkanal | Approved |
4 | MBBS College | Nabarangpur | Approved |
5 | Dental College | Burla | Approved |
6 | Dental College | Berhampur | Approved |
7 | Dental College | Bolangir | Approved |
8 | Dental College | Keonjhar | Approved |
9 | Ayurvedic College | Mayurbhanj | Approved |
10 | MBBS College | Phulbani (Kandhamal) | Starting 2025 |
11 | MBBS College | Talcher (Angul) | Starting 2025 |
Minister Mahaling emphasized that these colleges will play a crucial role in tackling the shortage of medical professionals in Odisha. The new MBBS colleges will have 100 seats each, significantly increasing the intake of medical students and improving access to healthcare services in both urban and rural areas.
In addition to the proposed institutions, two new MBBS colleges in Phulbani and Talcher will begin academic operations this year, further contributing to Odisha’s expanding healthcare framework.
The state government is not only focusing on institutions but also on manpower. Last year, over 4,000 doctors and paramedics were recruited, and plans are underway to recruit 5,000+ healthcare professionals in 2025. In a broader move, the government is also committed to filling 1.5 lakh vacant posts across departments, with healthcare being a priority sector.
National Collaboration and Support
Minister Mahaling expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for their support in getting the new medical colleges approved. Their backing, according to the Minister, has been instrumental in realizing Odisha’s healthcare development goals.
Public-Private Partnerships
Addressing the summit, Sunil Gupta, Chairman of CII Odisha State Council, highlighted the need for strong public-private collaboration to scale up healthcare infrastructure. He praised Odisha’s efforts and encouraged further industry participation to support training, innovation, and infrastructure development in the medical sector.
The announcement of 9 new medical colleges in Odisha marks a significant leap in healthcare transformation. With increased MBBS and dental seats, a focus on traditional medicine, and employment generation, the state is well on its way to becoming a healthcare education hub. These initiatives not only promise better medical access but also empower the youth with professional opportunities in medicine and allied fields.
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