Odisha: Research Fund declared for all Govt Medical Colleges, PG institutes

Odisha- In a bid to enhance the quality of medical education and research in Odisha's medical sector, the Odisha Government announced a 'Research Fund' proposal earmarked for all medical institutions across the state. This fund will be allocated to every state-run medical college, dental college, and postgraduate institution in Odisha.

According to PTI, SCB Medical College and Hospital (MCH) in Cuttack, MKCG MCH in Berhampur, and VIMSAR in Burla each, will receive Rs 1 crore annually. On the other hand, the new government medical colleges and SCB Dental College in Cuttack will be allocated Rs 50 lakh per year. Furthermore, each government PG institute will receive Rs 25 lakh annually. This results in a total annual allocation of Rs 9 crore for this purpose.

However, the funds will be released only if the selection-cum-monitoring committee constituted in each medical/dental college and hospital/PG institution in the state approves the proposal. The Principal Investigator of the projects will have to submit the proposal to the Member Secretary of the Selection-cum-Monitoring Committee for consideration. The Principal Investigator will then present a presentation to the committee, which will evaluate the research proposal, ensure approval by the institutional ethics committee, and estimate tentative project costs.

Meanwhile, this research fund will be given to the respective Deans and Principals/Directors of all Government Medical/Dental Colleges and Hospitals and Post Graduate Institutions in the State. To meet the expenses of research-related activities conducted within these institutions.

This research fund aims to not only benefit the state but also enhance the quality of education by facilitating research, research publications and participation in seminars and conferences within the country. Through this, the faculty will remain updated in the field of advanced treatment and teaching methods which will help in providing better healthcare services to the people.