70th Anniversary of S.C.B. Medical College, Cuttack

Platinum Jubilee Commemorative Stamp

The history of S.C.B. Medical College, Cuttack is as rich as it is inspiring. Its roots trace back to the Maratha era, when a humble first-aid centre was set up at its present location to treat pilgrims journeying to and from Puri during the famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath.

From Odisha Medical School to S.C.B. Medical College

In 1875, under British supervision, the Odisha Medical School was established, later transforming into the Odisha Medical College in 1944. In 1951, it was renamed Sri Rama Chandra Bhanja Medical College in honour of the Maharaja of Mayurbhanj, whose generous contribution of ₹1.3 lakh made the dream of a premier medical institution possible.

The college’s first MBBS batch of 22 students began in 1944, graduating in 1948. Recognition from the Medical Council of India followed in 1952, with postgraduate MD/MS courses introduced in 1960 and post-doctoral training in Cardiology and Neurosurgery launched in 1981. Over time, multiple super-speciality disciplines have been added, making S.C.B. one of India’s most prestigious medical institutions.

A Pillar of Excellence in Healthcare and Education

Spanning 87 acres, the campus is home to the medical and dental colleges, a nursing college, pharmacy and DMLT wings, state-of-the-art lecture theatres, a modern library, an auditorium, and extensive student hostels. Annually, nearly 2,000 skilled professionals graduate here, serving not just India but the global medical community.

The hospital offers free treatment to patients with an impressive 2,200-bed capacity, soon to expand to 5,000 under a ₹3,500-crore mega project led by the Government of Odisha. Once complete, it will stand among the largest, most modern healthcare facilities in the world.

Unique Services and Innovations

Few medical colleges in India can match the specialized services of S.C.B. Medical College. The Telemedicine Resource Centre, started in 2001 with support from ISRO and SGPGI Lucknow, provides online patient care, doctor training, and virtual education—vital during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research is another cornerstone, with departments collaborating nationally and hosting projects funded by ICMR, DBT, and DST. Facilities like the Multidisciplinary Research Unit (MRU) and Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) further strengthen its role in advancing medical science.

Alumni and Achievements

The alumni network of S.C.B. Medical College is a galaxy of achievers, with doctors decorated with prestigious honours such as the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, Dr. B.C. Roy Award, and Samanta Chandra Shekhar Award. Their contributions inspire generations of medical professionals.

During the COVID-19 crisis, the institution rose to the challenge by setting up four dedicated 600-bed units with dialysis, surgery, paediatric, maternity, and ICU facilities. More than 10,000 patients were treated here. The installation of nine ECMO units—the largest such facility in Eastern India—proved historic, offering life-saving care at no cost to critical patients.

A Heritage of Service, A Future of Promise

S.C.B. Medical College is more than a medical institution—it is a sanctuary of hope for the underprivileged and a cradle of excellence for aspiring doctors. With a proud legacy spanning over 75 years, it continues to blend tradition with innovation, compassion with cutting-edge care.

The Commemorative Stamp

To honour its Platinum Jubilee, the Department of Posts has issued a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to S.C.B. Medical College & Hospital. This stamp is not just a philatelic collectible—it is a tribute to an institution that has served millions, nurtured brilliant minds, and stood tall as a symbol of Odisha’s contribution to healthcare and nation-building.