In a significant development for the healthcare sector in Tripura, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announced plans to initiate heart transplant procedures at GB Pant Hospital in Agartala. The announcement was made during the 21st Foundation Day celebrations of Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) and GB Pant Hospital, held at the KLS Auditorium.
Dr. Saha disclosed that discussions with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) are ongoing, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with the Mohan Foundation to pave the way for cardiac transplant services in the state.
“Our goal is to elevate AGMC and GB Pant Hospital to become leading centers of excellence. Today, we commend the dedication of those who established these institutions,” stated the Chief Minister.
He also revealed plans to introduce super-specialty medical courses at the institutions to enhance advanced healthcare and medical education in Tripura.
Regarding medical education, Dr. Saha highlighted the progress made in Tripura, with the number of MBBS seats increasing to approximately 400 from a minimal amount in previous years. For the academic session 2025-26, the National Medical Commission has sanctioned 150 MBBS seats for AGMC, with 118 allocated for state students, 22 for central nominees, and 10 for candidates from other northeastern states.
“At present, 525 MBBS students are enrolled at AGMC. Since its establishment in 2005, the institution has produced 1,484 graduates, with over 1,270 coming from Tripura. Many of them are serving in rural areas, bolstering our public healthcare system,” he added.
Acknowledging infrastructure challenges such as the reduced bed capacity at GB Pant Hospital, which has decreased from 1,413 beds to 727, the government plans to add 100 more beds soon.
Dr. Saha also highlighted the successful kidney transplants that have taken place at the hospital and mentioned that preparations are underway for liver and heart transplant services, with technical consultations ongoing with AIIMS.
To improve healthcare accessibility, the Chief Minister announced plans to launch telemedicine services across the state, with necessary approvals already in place. He also mentioned that the cardiac care center at GB Pant Hospital is operational, and similar facilities in other districts are nearing completion.
AGMC and GB Pant Hospital continue to inspire confidence and trust among the people of Tripura, concluded Dr. Saha.
