The National Medical Commission (NMC) has granted approval to Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, Chandigarh, to increase its annual MBBS intake from 150 to 200 seats. The new seats will be available starting from the 2026-27 academic session.
This decision marks a significant step forward for medical education in the region. GMCH-32 is one of North India's premier government medical institutions, and the expansion will allow more aspiring medical students to pursue their education there.
What the Approval Means for Medical Students
With the addition of 50 MBBS seats, a larger number of students will now have the opportunity to study at GMCH-32. The approval reflects the institution's commitment to maintaining high academic standards and strengthening its undergraduate medical program.
According to The Tribune, the approval is a major boost to medical education in the region.
Why This Expansion Matters
Chandigarh has only one government medical college — GMCH-32 — which accounts for all MBBS seats in the Union Territory. The increase from 150 to 200 seats will help address the growing demand for medical education in the area.
The approval comes as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to quality medical training and strengthen the healthcare workforce in North India.
Our Take: A Welcome Step for Medical Education
In our view, this approval is a positive development for students and the healthcare system alike. Adding 50 more seats at a government institution means more young doctors can be trained at an affordable cost. Given the intense competition for MBBS seats across India, every additional seat at a reputable government college makes a real difference. We hope this trend of expanding capacity continues at other institutions as well.