Shillong: The Meghalaya government officially killed the proposal for a 233 crore interest-free loan to the PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital. Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla confirmed the rejection this June, citing the state's revenue-deficit status as the primary barrier. The money was meant to be paid back over twenty years.
Discussions started in 2024 between the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya and state officials. USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque claimed the government promised the cash. The deal supposedly included reserving 40 out of 150 MBBS seats for locals: 25 at the government rate and 15 at half price. It also promised free general treatment and cheaper super-specialty care for residents. No formal contract was ever signed.
"The state cannot provide an interest-free loan to a private institution," Shylla stated. He noted the state must prioritize other needs while the university looks for funding elsewhere.
PIMC is the first private medical college in the state. It earned National Medical Commission approval in October 2024 and opened its doors that same year. Parents now fear the financial crisis will tank the quality of education and training. Shylla insists the government is still working to help the students navigate these school hardships.
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