Genesis and Development of Medical Education in Bombay Presidency (1825-1925)

Summary

The development of medical education in the Bombay Presidency between 1825 and 1925 began with early British efforts to address health concerns among soldiers and civilians. In 1826, the "School for Native Doctors" was established to train Indians in Western medicine, though it faced challenges like inadequate facilities and resistance to anatomical studies. Dr. John McLennan pioneered translations of medical texts but encountered setbacks, leading to the closure of the school. Later, Sir Robert Grant championed medical education, leading to the 1845 founding of Grant Medical College, affiliated with Sir Jamsetjee Jejeebhoy Hospital. The college offered a comprehensive curriculum, including anatomy, chemistry, and clinical training, and became a center for advanced medical research. By 1854, it gained recognition from the Royal College of Surgeons, and in 1859, it affiliated with the University of Bombay, introducing the L.M.& S. degree. Over time, the college expanded its facilities, including specialized hospitals for women and children. Medical education grew significantly between 1861 and 1911, with increased demand for trained professionals and the establishment of additional medical schools in Poona, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad. Standards rose, with the introduction of the five-year M.B.B.S. degree in 1906-07 and alignment with British Medical Council requirements. Efforts to include women in medical education began in the late 19th century, culminating in the 1892 inauguration of the College for Women at Grant Medical College. Pioneering figures like Dr. Freny Cama and Dr. Edith Pechey advanced women's medical training, though challenges persisted. By 1925, medical education in the region had achieved considerable progress in infrastructure, curriculum, and inclusivity, marking a transformative period in India's healthcare development.