Mangaluru: The Karnataka government has moved forward with its plan to establish a medical college in Puttur, with approval granted for the construction of a new 300-bed hospital. MLA Ashok Kumar Rai announced that the finance department has cleared the project through the medical education department, following its inclusion in the 2025–26 Budget.
Finance Department Clears Project Proposal
The finance department gave its approval on November 27, marking a key step toward the creation of the new medical institution. Land has already been earmarked for the campus, and officials expect the detailed project report (DPR) to be completed within 45 days. The tender process is likely to conclude within two months, after which Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will lay the foundation stone.
Budget Allocation and Project Expectations
According to a report by the Deccan Herald, an estimated budget of ₹1,000 crore has been allocated for the establishment of the medical college. Ashok Kumar Rai stated that the government has been urged to implement the project in Bannur of Puttur, as it would streamline future developmental work. He emphasised that carrying out construction through the medical education department, rather than the health and family welfare department, would make the process of setting up the medical college smoother.
Infrastructure to Follow Medical Council Guidelines
The MLA highlighted that construction will need to comply with the guidelines of the Medical Council of India (MCI). This includes the development of laboratories, operation theatres and essential medical facilities required for an academic and treatment-based institution of this scale.
Call for Administrative Streamlining
Rai stressed that channeling the project through the medical education department would ensure better coordination and transparency. He reiterated that this approach would help align construction plans with academic requirements, making the overall establishment of the medical college more efficient.
Responding to Opposition Criticism
Addressing criticism from opposition leaders who questioned the feasibility and intention behind the project, the MLA said the government has stayed true to its word. He maintained that the project is progressing as promised and that political opponents should refrain from undermining the initiative.
Government Defends Progress on Medical College
Speaking to Deccan Herald, Ashok Kumar Rai remarked that the opposition had not made any effort to establish a medical college in Puttur when they were in power. He asserted that with the finance department now giving its approval, the criticism lacks merit and the project stands as proof of the government’s commitment.
Foundation Stone Ceremony Expected Soon
With the tendering process expected to conclude within weeks after the DPR is finalised, the project is swiftly moving toward its next milestone. The foundation stone will be laid by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, marking the formal launch of the long-awaited medical college and associated 300-bed hospital in Puttur.
