By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 13: Former Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh on Monday expressed happiness over the commencement of operations at the much-awaited Shillong Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) although its official inauguration is yet to take place.
Lyngdoh told reporters that the beginning of services at the medical college marks a significant milestone, as people long waited for such a facility. She noted that while formal inauguration ceremonies hold their own importance, the real achievement lies in the institution becoming functional, giving its services to the public.
The state government is awaiting confirmation from Central Ministers to visit Shillong and formally inaugurate the SMCH.
Noting the delay in their visit, the government decided to operationalise the institution in the larger interest of the public, ensuring that healthcare services and medical education are not held up any longer.
Lyngdoh, who played a key role in pushing forward the establishment and operationalisation of the SMCH during her tenure, said that she is not overly concerned about the delay in inauguration.
“What matters the most is that the institution is now up and running, benefiting people,” she said, adding that its functioning should take precedence over ceremonial formalities.
The Shillong Civil Hospital and the Ganesh Das Government MCH Hospital have been designated as teaching hospitals for an annual MBBS intake of 50 students.
Preparatory work has begun for the greenfield expansion of the proposed medical college project. The next phase envisions adding 50 MBBS and 50 postgraduate seats within the same campus.
The expansion will be operationalised in the near future, subject to regulatory approvals and adherence to NMC norms.
