India’s First PPP-Based Medical Colleges Launched in Madhya Pradesh

The foundation stones of two medical colleges in Dhar and Betul districts were laid. Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda participated in the event. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav was also involved. This marked a national first in India’s medical education sector. These are the country’s earliest medical colleges developed through the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model. This signals a new approach to expanding healthcare infrastructure.

PPP Model for Medical Education Expansion

The Dhar and Betul medical colleges are included in Madhya Pradesh’s plan. There is an initiative to establish four PPP-based medical colleges. Katni and Panna are scheduled next.

Under the PPP framework:

The state government leases up to 25 acres of land for each institution
Private partners are responsible for constructing academic blocks, teaching hospitals, hostels, laboratories and residential facilities
Existing district hospitals attached to the colleges will be upgraded to meet National Medical Commission (NMC) standards
Administrative control of district hospitals will remain with the state government

This model aims to combine public oversight with private investment and execution efficiency.

Strengthening Healthcare in Tribal Regions

Both Dhar and Betul are tribal-dominated districts. Officials said the colleges will significantly improve access to quality healthcare. They will also enhance medical education in underserved regions.

The Dhar medical college is being developed at a cost of ₹260 crore
Swami Vivekananda Shiksha Dham Foundation is the private partner for the Dhar project

The initiative aims to increase the local availability of doctors and specialists. It is expected to reduce regional healthcare disparities. Additionally, it will strengthen district-level medical services.

Union Government’s Healthcare Achievements Highlighted

JP Nadda called the initiative a historic milestone. He highlighted India’s transformation in healthcare policy since 2017. The focus has shifted from curative to preventive and holistic care. He cited key national achievements:

Institutional deliveries increased to nearly 89%
Maternal mortality reduced at more than twice the global average rate
Over 40 crore people screened for hypertension and diabetes
Expansion of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs for primary healthcare
Use of the U-WIN portal to strengthen maternal, child health and immunisation services