MCI inspection at Govt Medical College under way

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, August 5

A team of the Medical Council of India (MCI) has arrived at Government Medical College here for an inspection. The inspection is crucial as the MCI, earlier, had increased the number of MBBS seats from 150 to 200. The MCI team’s satisfaction is important for increasing the seats for the third batch. College authorities say the inspection is under way since yesterday.

Earlier, the college had issued a circular that no employee would go on leave as the MCI team could arrive anytime. Principal Dr Tejbir Singh said, “The MCI team will submit its report to the Union Ministry of Health. The ministry will get in touch with the college in case any shortcomings are listed by the team.”

He, however, added that the college had upgraded its infrastructure and did away with most of the shortcomings that were reported in the previous inspections. During the last inspection, the MCI had noted a shortage of 11.6 per cent faculty. The MCI had also raised minor objections with regards to the non-centralised OPD and non-working intercom system.

The MCI has rejected the college’s proposal for increase of MBBS seats many times in the past, so its satisfaction is crucial for continuance of approval of 200 seats, said an official.

After inspection, the MCI submits its report to the Union Ministry of Health which subsequently contacts the college. Sources at the college said that the delay in holding meetings of the Departmental Promotion Committee and in advertisement of vacant posts has resulted in shortage of faculty.

College officials feel that even if the MCI raises objections, there is no imminent threat as they will get time to address the suggestions and invite them for review inspection.