In a major development in higher education, IIT Kharagpur has announced plans to launch its first-ever Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme. The institute will apply to the National Medical Commission (NMC) for approval by March 31, 2026, aiming to start the course in the upcoming academic session. If approved, this will mark a historic step, as IIT Kharagpur could become the first IIT in India to offer a postgraduate medical degree.
IIT Kharagpur MD Course 2026: Key Highlights
The proposed MD programme is designed to integrate technology with medical education, reflecting IIT’s core strength in innovation.
The institute has already recruited around 20 doctors to support teaching and academic delivery.
NMC Approval for IIT Kharagpur MD Course: What Happens Next?
The proposal will undergo a detailed inspection by the National Medical Commission before approval. Key steps include:
- Infrastructure inspection by NMC team
- Evaluation of hospital and medical college facilities
- Approval of faculty and curriculum standards
Only after meeting all norms will the institute be allowed to begin admissions.
Where Will Classes and Training Take Place?
IIT Kharagpur has already built the required infrastructure to support the MD programme.
- Academic training will take place at a medical college on campus named after Dr B.C. Roy
- Clinical training will be provided at the institute’s hospital in Balrampur
This combination ensures both theoretical learning and hands-on exposure for students.
Admission Through NEET for IIT Kharagpur MD Course
Students seeking admission to the MD programme will be selected through the NEET exam, similar to other postgraduate medical courses in India.
This means:
- Candidates must qualify NEET PG
- Admission will follow standard medical counselling procedures
- Cut-offs will depend on seat availability and competition
Why IIT Kharagpur is Entering Medical Education?
The move reflects IIT Kharagpur’s strategy to expand into interdisciplinary education, combining engineering with healthcare. According to officials, the institute plans to:
- Introduce technology-driven medical curriculum
- Develop dual-degree programmes (engineering + medicine)
- Promote research in healthcare technology and innovation
This approach could create a new model of “tech-enabled medical education” in India.
MBBS Plan on Hold for Now
While IIT Kharagpur had earlier planned to launch an MBBS programme, the idea has been put on hold due to infrastructure constraints. Officials have indicated that:
- MBBS may be introduced in future
- MD programme will act as a starting point
- Expansion will depend on long-term capacity building