The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) has received approval to launch a postgraduate Doctor of Medicine (MD) program. This approval comes from the National Medical Commission (NMC). The MD program will commence with its first cohort of 20 students in the 2025-26 academic year . This initiative marks IIT Kharagpur’s entry into advanced medical education. Simultaneously, the institute has placed its previously announced undergraduate MBBS program on hold.
MD Program Structure and Clinical Training
The Doctor of Medicine program at IIT Kharagpur is structured to provide both robust theoretical knowledge and extensive practical clinical experience. Theoretical training for MD students will be conducted at Dr. B.C. Roy Medical College. This medical college recently underwent significant infrastructure enhancements. These upgrades were supported by a substantial investment totaling Rs. 300 crore , aimed at modernizing its facilities.
For practical training and clinical exposure, students will utilize the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Super-Speciality Hospital (SPMSH). SPMSH is strategically located adjacent to the main IIT Kharagpur campus. The hospital began its in-patient services in August 2025 and conducted its inaugural surgical procedure during the same month. To fully support the demands of the new MD program and to cater to the healthcare needs of the campus community, SPMSH is currently expanding its capacity. It is developing into a 220-bed facility , offering comprehensive medical services.
Previous MBBS Plans and Current Status
Prior to the MD program approval, IIT Kharagpur had outlined plans in 2023 to introduce an undergraduate Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) course. This proposed MBBS program was slated to begin in the 2024 academic session . The institute intended to admit 100 MBBS students annually. Admissions would have been facilitated through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG, a nationwide examination for medical aspirants.
IIT Kharagpur had indicated that its MBBS curriculum would differ from traditional programs. The institute planned to integrate a greater emphasis on technology within the syllabus. This technological focus aimed to align medical education with advancements in engineering and scientific research. However, the launch of the MBBS program remains indefinitely postponed, allowing the institution to prioritize the newly approved MD program.
Admission Details and Future Expansion
The initial intake for the Doctor of Medicine program is set at 20 seats. IIT Kharagpur projects an expansion of these seats to 50 by the year 2027 . This planned increase is contingent upon successful infrastructure assessments. Various assessing bodies will review the available facilities to ensure they meet the enhanced capacity requirements.
Prospective candidates interested in applying for the MD program should regularly check the official website of IIT Kharagpur. The website address is www.iitkgp.ac.in . Specific application details, including eligibility criteria and submission deadlines, are anticipated to be released in early 2026 . Students are advised to monitor official announcements for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding admissions.