DAVV’s medical college dream derails once again:RGPV denies Jhabua building, Bangarda land restricted; funding crunch delays project launch further

The long-cherished dream of Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) to set up its own medical college has once again slipped into uncertainty. Two decades after the project was first conceived, the plan has stalled both in Indore and Jhabua, leaving many to call it the university’s “jinxed project.” Jhabua plan collapses after RGPV’s refusal DAVV’s latest proposal to start the medical college in Jhabua has hit a wall after Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya (RGPV) refused to hand over its engineering college building for the project. The university had planned to use the RGPV campus temporarily while constructing a permanent facility later. Officials had been optimistic, given the proximity of the district hospital, which could have served as an attached teaching facility for National Medical Commission (NMC) approval. However, with RGPV withdrawing its consent, DAVV now lacks even a temporary space to begin operations. Although the government has allotted land for the project in Jhabua, DAVV does not have funds to begin construction. Preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has also been delayed until financial arrangements are made. Bangarda land remains unused for 24 years In Indore, DAVV’s original plan dates back to 2001, when the government allotted 50 acres at Bada Bangarda for the proposed medical college. Despite two foundation stone ceremonies, one in 2001 and another in 2009, no construction ever began. Over time, 25 acres were transferred to another institution, leaving the university with just 12 acres, far short of the area required under medical norms. The state government has clarified that the remaining land cannot be diverted for any purpose other than a medical college. DAVV had recently planned to start B.Arch and B.Design courses on the Bangarda campus, but officials admit that doing so would require fresh government permission, as the land remains reserved for medical education. Funding hurdles delay project further DAVV Vice Chancellor Prof. Rakesh Singhai said the university is in a difficult position. At Bada Bangarda, only 12 acres of land remain, which is insufficient for a medical college. We will request the government to allow us to start other courses there. In Jhabua, RGPV has not yet made its position clear. Constructing new buildings will require crores of rupees and we are exploring funding options. he said. Given the lack of infrastructure, funds, and clarity from both government and RGPV, officials concede that it is unlikely the medical college will begin operations in the next academic session. A two-decade wait with little progress The medical college project, first proposed in 2001, has remained stuck in bureaucratic and logistical hurdles. Despite changing plans, shifting locations, and multiple assurances, the university has failed to even begin groundwork. With no immediate breakthrough in sight, DAVV’s dream of having its own medical college continues to remain on paper.