New Delhi: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda informed the Lok Sabha that India’s doctor-population ratio stands at 1:811, surpassing the World Health Organization (WHO) benchmark of 1:1000.
Citing data from the National Medical Commission (NMC) as of November 2024, the minister reported that 13,86,145 allopathic doctors are registered with State Medical Councils and the NMC. Assuming 80% of these doctors are actively practicing, along with approximately 6.14 lakh AYUSH practitioners, the country achieves a favorable doctor-population ratio of 1:811.
Expansion in Medical Education
The government has significantly expanded medical education infrastructure, with the number of medical colleges increasing by 102% from 387 in 2014 to 780 in 2024. Correspondingly, MBBS seats have grown by 130%, from 51,348 to 1,18,137, while postgraduate (PG) seats have risen by 135%, from 31,185 to 73,157.
Key Initiatives to Strengthen Healthcare Workforce
- Establishment of New Medical Colleges:
Through a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, 131 new medical colleges are operational out of 157 approved. These include 23 colleges in Rajasthan. - Super Specialty Blocks under PMSSY:
Of 75 projects approved for upgrading government medical colleges with super-specialty facilities, 69 have been completed. - New AIIMS Institutions:
Under a Central Sector Scheme, 22 AIIMS have been approved, with undergraduate courses initiated in 19 of them. - DNB Qualification and Faculty Shortage:
Diplomate of National Board (DNB) qualifications are now recognized for faculty positions to address faculty shortages. Additionally, the upper age limit for faculty appointments and re-employment has been increased to 70 years.
Nadda highlighted these measures as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare access and strengthen the medical workforce nationwide.
