Imphal, September 22: In a landmark decision to strengthen healthcare delivery and medical education, the Governor-in-Council of Manipur on Monday approved the establishment of multiple new nursing institutions and research facilities across the state.

Under the Central Sector Scheme for the Development of Nursing Services, two B.Sc Nursing colleges will be set up in Thoubal and Churachandpur. Additionally, another B.Sc Nursing college will be established at Churachandpur under the Central Sponsored Scheme, “Augmenting Nursing Education – Establishment of New Colleges of Nursing (Co-located with Medical Colleges).” Complementing these initiatives, two new state-funded GNM Nursing Schools will be opened in Thoubal and Churachandpur, replacing existing schools that will be phased out following upgradation.

Currently, Manipur has 14 GNM schools (2 government and 12 private) with a total intake of 519 students, while over 800 qualified applicants apply each year. Similarly, the state has 16 B.Sc Nursing colleges (2 government and 14 private) with 610 seats, against more than 1,600 applicants annually. The new institutions are expected to address the existing 40% shortfall in GNM courses and 64% deficit in B.Sc Nursing seats, producing more trained nurses and expanding access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas. These measures are also projected to generate employment opportunities and empower youth, especially women, with professional skills for domestic and international careers.

The Governor-in-Council also approved a significant increase in stipends for undergraduate interns (MBBS and BDS) at JNIMS, raising it from ₹15,210 to ₹25,000, addressing financial constraints faced by medical and dental students.

In addition, the Council sanctioned the recruitment of staff for a Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit (MRU) at JNIMS, funded under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare’s umbrella scheme for health research infrastructure. The MRU will provide a platform for biomedical innovation, clinical studies, and evidence-based healthcare solutions, enhancing institutional research capacity and improving public health outcomes.

Through these initiatives, Manipur aims to strengthen nursing education, expand research infrastructure, and support medical students, positioning the state as a hub for skilled healthcare professionals and medical innovation while fostering socio-economic development and a healthier future for its population.