Refuting YSRCP charge, AP Govt launches counter-campaign on medical colleges on PPP model

Stoutly dismissing YSRCP leaders criticism on developing medical colleges on PPP model, the TDP-led NDA coalition has launched a counter-campaign.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu came down heavily on the opposition party, saying YSRCP is spreading lies to mislead the public.

Meanwhile, the government stated that Andhra Pradesh launched PPP model to rapidly expand medical colleges, add seats for AP students, and improve healthcare access and quality statewide.

In a detailed statement, the government said "new PPP initiative unlocks stalled investments, adds 110 UG medical seats annually for AP students, and guarantees free OPD and majority IPD services while integrating advanced technologies."

Seventeen new medical colleges were sanctioned earlier with an estimated investment of ₹8,480 crore. However, only ₹1,550.39 crore (18.2%) was spent over four years up to June 2024, leaving 11 colleges non-operational and the balance of ₹6,152 crore unspent, risking a 15-year completion timeline at the previous pace .

The government clarified the current government released ₹786.82 crore after June 2024 to revive stalled works and has now adopted PPP model to ensure time-bound completion and improved service delivery.

The government wants 10 medical colleges to be developed and operated under PPP for speed, quality, and Statewide access, complementing ongoing government efforts to operationalise sanctioned institutions.

The statement pointed out that the decision will lead to an estimated savings of ₹3,700 crore in development costs and approximately ₹500 crore per year in operations and maintenance through private-sector efficiency and shared investment under the PPP model .

"The PPP seat-sharing pattern provides 75 Convenor Quota (General) seats per 150-seat college, yielding 11 extra state-quota seats per college versus prior structures (total 110 across 10 PPP colleges). Patient-first commitment is given through free OPD services, free diagnostics in OPD, and free IPD for 70% beds under PMJAY, NTRVST, and CGHS rates. Paid services apply to 30% IPD beds with market-rate diagnostics for paid patients," the statement said.