New Delhi, Sep 27 (NationPress) The recent addition of over 10,000 new medical seats by the Union Cabinet marks a significant stride toward India attaining universal healthcare, as stated in an official announcement on Saturday.

On September 24, the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the addition of 10,023 new medical seats across existing government colleges and hospitals, backed by an investment of Rs 15,034 crore.

This initiative is part of a larger vision aiming to establish 75,000 additional medical seats over the next five years.

“The approval of Phase-III of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme will create a substantial number of PG and UG medical seats. This will enhance our healthcare system and improve the medical education infrastructure. It will guarantee that every region of India has access to skilled doctors,” PM Modi expressed in a post on X.

Despite a significant expansion of medical infrastructure in the last decade, the demand for healthcare services continues to surpass supply in a country with a population of 1.4 billion.

To ensure quality healthcare is available to all, especially in rural, tribal, and hard-to-reach communities, the Cabinet has approved an additional 5,000 postgraduate and 5,023 undergraduate medical seats in existing government colleges and hospitals by 2028-29.

“The total investment for this expansion is Rs 15,034 crore, spanning from 2025-26 to 2028-29. Of this, 68.5 percent, equating to Rs 10,303.20 crore, will be funded by the Union government, while the remaining Rs 4,731.30 crore will come from the states. The investment per seat will be Rs 1.5 crore,” the statement indicated.

This increase in medical seats will benefit underserved communities by providing a skilled medical workforce, particularly specialists. Moreover, it will offer aspiring medical students greater opportunities to pursue medical education in India, ensuring that the quality of education meets global standards.

With an increase in the number of doctors and specialists, India has the potential to become a leading destination for affordable healthcare and enhance foreign exchange. It will also facilitate accessible healthcare in underserved rural and remote areas.

New direct and indirect job opportunities will arise, including positions for doctors, faculty, paramedical staff, researchers, administrators, and support services.

India boasts the highest number of medical colleges, totaling 808, and has been continually expanding its medical educational infrastructure.

“The implications will be far-reaching; improved medical education standards, increased job opportunities in healthcare sectors, and most importantly, better health outcomes for millions of citizens who have historically struggled to access quality medical care,” the statement concluded.