In line with this plan, the Bihar Health Department has instructed principals of all government medical colleges to initiate the formal process for seat expansion. As reported by Live Hindustan, colleges have been directed to submit detailed proposals through the National Medical Commission (NMC) seat expansion portal, strictly adhering to the prescribed norms, guidelines, and timelines.

Once the proposals receive approval, several medical colleges that currently admit 120 MBBS students annually are expected to increase their intake to 150 seats. This proposed enhancement will apply to key institutions such as Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital, Muzaffarpur, Anugrah Narayan Medical College, Gaya, Government Medical College Bettiah, Bhagalpur Medical College, and Bhagwan Mahavir Medical College, Pawapuri.

Medical colleges that already have relatively higher intake capacities are also anticipated to benefit from proportionate increases. Notably, PMCH’s total MBBS intake could rise to nearly 230 seats, while Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS), Patna, may see its intake expand to approximately 180 seats. Additionally, AIIMS Patna and Purnea Medical College are also expected to witness an increase in their sanctioned MBBS seat strength.

To ensure smooth implementation of the proposed expansion, the state health department has assured full support in addressing infrastructure and faculty-related requirements. Medical colleges have been advised to ensure adequate availability of qualified teaching staff, laboratories, hospitals facilities, and technical personnel in accordance with NMC regulations, so that inspections and approvals are not delayed.