Archive · 18 Sep 2026
Sikkim Government Medical College Begins First Academic Session
Sikkim has opened its first government medical college.
The college started its first academic session with 100 students studying to become doctors.
The National Medical Commission allowed it to admit 100 MBBS students each year from the 2026–27 session.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said students can now study medicine without leaving the state.
The college is named after Helen Lepcha, who was remembered for her contribution to Sikkim.
At a white coat ceremony, students were told to be honest, caring, disciplined and responsible.
The government wants the college to study Himalayan medicine and improve healthcare in remote areas.
Officials also unveiled a bust of Helen Lepcha and the college’s official logo.
Sikkim’s first government medical college has begun its inaugural academic session with 100 MBBS students.
The National Medical Commission granted permission to admit 100 students annually from the 2026–27 academic session.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang said the college would expand access to medical education within Sikkim.
The institution is named after Sikkimese freedom fighter Helen Lepcha, whose bust and the college logo were unveiled.
The state government plans for the college to become a centre of excellence focused on Himalayan medicine and rural healthcare.
- Who
- The first batch of 100 MBBS students, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Governor Om Prakash Mathur and officials associated with the college.
- What
- Helen Lepcha Sikkim Government Medical College began its inaugural academic session.
- When
- The session commenced on September 18; permission covers admissions from the 2026–27 academic session.
- Where
- Sokeythang, Gangtok, Sikkim.
- Why
- To provide medical education within Sikkim and develop a centre focused on Himalayan medicine and healthcare for rural and remote communities.
- Institution
- Helen Lepcha Sikkim Government Medical College
- Location
- Sokeythang, Gangtok, Sikkim
- Inaugural batch
- 100 MBBS students
- Annual admission capacity
- 100 MBBS students
- Permission authority
- National Medical Commission
- Academic session
- 2026–27
- Planned focus
- Himalayan medicine, research and healthcare for rural and remote areas