In a significant boost for medical education in northern Karnataka, the National Medical Commission has given the green light to the Bagalkot Medical College and Research Institute to begin admitting students. Starting this academic year, 100 aspiring doctors will walk through its doors for the first time.

Key facts

  • 100 MBBS seats approved for the 2026-27 academic year
  • College established last year on government hospital premises
  • Permission follows successful appeal process concluded in September 2026

From Rejection to Approval

The path to approval wasn't straightforward. The NMC initially rejected the college's application, prompting state authorities to file an appeal. The first Appeal Committee issued its order on July 23, 2026, setting the stage for further review. Finally, the second Appeal Committee's decision paved the way for the Letter of Permission issued by the Medical Assessment and Rating Board.

A Milestone for Healthcare

Local advocates are celebrating what they see as a transformative moment for the region. Holabasu Shettar, member of the government medical college agitation committee, called it "a milestone in the district's healthcare and medical education infrastructure."

"The commencement of the medical college is expected to create opportunities for students aspiring to pursue medical education while also strengthening the availability of trained medical professionals and healthcare facilities in the region," Shettar said.

He specifically thanked former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and current Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for their roles in establishing the college.

Regulatory Framework

The permission follows strict adherence to the National Medical Commission Act, 2019 and the Establishment of Medical Institutions, Assessment and Rating Regulations, 2023. These regulations require detailed submissions of prescribed schemes and mandatory documents to the MARB—a process the college has now successfully completed.