Archive · 14 Aug 2025
How the British Shaped Medical Education in India
In the 1800s, the British started teaching Indians about medicine.
They wanted to provide medical care to soldiers and weren't sure about traditional Indian medicine.
The first medical school was in Calcutta.
At first, people learned for three years, using English, with subjects such as Anatomy, and Surgery.
Later on, more schools opened, and people needed to register.
Some of the earliest medical pioneers were also mentioned, including a woman doctor who graduated in Bengal.
The British established a structured medical education system in India starting in 1835 with Calcutta Medical College.
This was partly to provide medical care for Indian soldiers and to address trust issues with existing medical practices.
Early MBBS programs were three years long, with English as the mode of instruction.
The curriculum evolved, and more colleges opened; registration with the General Medical Council became mandatory later.
Kadambini Ganguly was the first woman to graduate with a medical degree in Bengal.
- Who
- The British, Indian students, and early medical professionals.
- What
- Establishment and evolution of medical education in India under British rule.
- When
- Started in 1835 with the Calcutta Medical College.
- Where
- India, with the first college in Calcutta.
- Why
- To provide medical care, provide a formal training system, and ensure the healthcare of the troops.
Historical Context
Modern Medical Practices
Medical systems
Historical Context
European doctors viewed their system as superior due to empirical observation and scientific methodology.
Modern Medical Practices
Early interactions between Western medicine, Ayurveda, and Unani shared common beliefs.
- First Medical College
- Calcutta Medical College (1835)
- MBBS Duration (Early)
- 3 years
- Mode of Instruction
- English
- First Indian Medical Graduate
- Dr. SCG Chuckerbutty (1855)
- First Woman Graduate
- Kadambini Ganguly (1886)
- First Women's Medical College
- North India Medical School for Women (1894)