Punjab CM Orders Rs.68.98 Crore Release To Upgrade Major Medical Colleges With World-Class Facilities

Chairing a review meeting of the Medical Education and Research Department, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said upgrading medical colleges had become an urgent necessity. He stressed that quality treatment and accurate medical testing must be easily accessible to people. The Chief Minister noted that modern healthcare demands advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. Without timely upgrades, public hospitals cannot match rising patient needs. This decision, he said, reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening public healthcare. The focus is on improving outcomes, not cosmetic changes.

How Much Funding Has Been Approved And For What Purpose?

The Chief Minister ordered the immediate release of Rs 68.98 crore for infrastructure and equipment upgrades. The funds will be used to procure advanced, world-class medical machinery. Development works within college campuses will also be carried out. Mann directed officials to ensure that the money is utilised strictly for improving patient care and testing facilities. He made it clear that delays or misuse will not be tolerated. The objective is visible improvement on the ground.

Which Medical Colleges Will Receive The Funds?

Under the approved plan, Government Medical College Amritsar will receive Rs 26.53 crore. Government Medical College Patiala has been allocated Rs 28.51 crore. Dr B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Medical Sciences in SAS Nagar, Mohali, will get Rs 9.43 crore. Additionally, the PGI Satellite Centre in Ferozepur has been sanctioned Rs 4.51 crore. These institutions were identified based on patient load and regional importance. The government aims to balance healthcare access across Punjab.

What Changes Will Patients Experience?

With the installation of modern diagnostic and treatment equipment, patients are expected to receive faster and more accurate medical services. Advanced testing facilities will reduce dependence on private labs. Treatment costs are likely to come down for common citizens. Mann said that government hospitals must provide affordable yet high-quality care. The upgrades are designed to shorten waiting times and improve clinical outcomes. For patients, this means dignity and reliability in public healthcare.

How Will Medical Education Benefit From This Investment?

The Chief Minister highlighted Punjab’s long tradition of producing globally respected doctors. He said students pursuing medical education deserve world-class learning environments. Upgraded equipment will help medical students gain hands-on experience with modern technology. This exposure is critical for their professional growth. Mann emphasised that strengthening medical education directly improves future healthcare standards. The investment is therefore both immediate and long-term in impact.

What Timeline Has The Government Set?

Mann instructed the department to complete all upgrade works in a time-bound and transparent manner. He stressed that people should not have to wait years to see benefits. Monitoring mechanisms will be put in place to track progress. Officials have been told to ensure quality standards are met at every stage. The Chief Minister reiterated that public interest remains the top priority. Speed and accountability, he said, will define this project.

What Is The Larger Vision Behind This Move?

According to the Chief Minister, the ultimate goal is to establish Punjab as a leading centre for medical education and healthcare services. By investing heavily in public institutions, the government aims to reduce inequality in health access. Mann said strong public hospitals are the backbone of a welfare state. This initiative reflects a long-term commitment to citizen well-being. The move signals that healthcare reform is central to the government’s agenda.