BENGALURU – Karnataka announced a boost to its medical education system, adding 422 new postgraduate (PG) seats in government medical colleges for the 2025‑26 academic year. The move, revealed on Diwali, marks a long‑awaited change and gives a bright start to students hoping to pursue advanced medical training.
Minister for Medical Education, Sharanprakash R. Patil, delivered the news at a press conference in Vikas Soudha. “We have met the community’s demand for more PG spots,” Patil said. The increase covers pre‑clinical, para‑clinical and clinical disciplines, adding seats in 20 departments, including Paediatrics, Anesthesiology, Forensic Medicine, and Microbiology.
Karnataka previously offered 1,694 PG seats last year. With the new 422 spots, the state will now have 2,116 postgraduate positions, a figure Patil described as a “Diwali gift for students.” The plan follows National Medical Commission approval, which also expanded undergraduate seats in Karnataka by 450 in the same cycle.
Following the government’s expansion of educational opportunities, Patil highlighted another milestone: 15 % of government college seats will become available under a new Non‑Resident Indian (NRI) quota. This initiative aims to attract overseas Indian medical graduates to practice in the state.
In the same press briefing, Patil addressed a separate cabinet decision requiring organisations or associations to seek permission from local authorities before hosting events on government premises. He clarified that the rule, originally introduced during the previous Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar’s tenure, is already in place and that the current BJP government is merely enforcing established policy. Patil dismissed criticism from opposition figures, noting that the restriction applies to all – regardless of the event’s nature – and that it does not affect the ability of NGOs to conduct activities in schools or colleges.
When asked about a recent controversy involving a statement from RDPR Minister Priyank Kharge, Patil pointed out that Kharge’s remarks were misunderstood. “He only asked that every organisation obtain permission for any activity on government‑controlled premises,” Patil said. The minister added that the BJP had no intention of banning any political party or group.
Patil also responded to local political tensions, noting that a representative’s comments on public prayer had no bearing on state policy. He emphasised that the government’s focus should remain on expanding educational opportunities and ensuring fair, transparent rules for all citizens.
Karnataka’s new PG seat allocation reflects the state’s commitment to strengthening medical training and opening doors to both domestic and international students. With the extra 422 positions and the NRI quota, the state is poised to become a more attractive destination for medical professionals across India and abroad.
Source: ianslive
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