The National Medical Commission (NMC) has proposed sweeping changes to regulations governing the establishment of new medical colleges, introduction of new courses, and increases in MBBS and postgraduate seats. The draft amendments — the Establishment of New Medical Institutions Assessment and Rating (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 — were published in the Gazette of India, with stakeholders invited to submit comments within 30 days.
Stricter Infrastructure Requirements
Under the draft rules, no approval will be granted to institutions with incomplete infrastructure. All mandatory infrastructure, including hospital and college buildings, must be completed before an application is submitted. The draft states: “Infrastructure and other statutory requirements as per the regulations shall be complete at the time of application. Temporary arrangement for the Hospital and college building shall not be permitted. A work-in-progress status of the applicant institute shall not be considered for further processing of the application.”
Financial Safeguards Introduced
The draft regulations propose a new financial safeguard requiring each medical college to maintain a dedicated corpus fund. The applicant must submit an undertaking at the time of application for earmarking this fund. Existing medical colleges will also have to maintain such a fund. The amount will be determined by the Medical Assessment & Rating Board (MARB) and communicated through notice, subject to revision from time to time. Colleges must submit documentary proof whenever directed by MARB.
Penalty for Pressuring NMC
In a first, the amendment disincentivises exertion of pressure on NMC. It states: “Any attempt to pressurise MARB or NMC through individuals or agencies will lead to immediate halt of the processing or rejection of the application.” This move aims to ensure integrity in the approval process.
Impact on Medical Education
Setting up new medical colleges could become more challenging with these proposed changes, which seek to improve quality and financial stability. The amendments amend several provisions of the existing 2023 regulations. Stakeholders have 30 days to submit comments before the regulations are finalised.
