Assam Medical College Renamed Barpeta Medical College, Future Recognition Planned for Former President

The Assam cabinet has decided to rename Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College and Hospital (FAAMCH) in Barpeta to Barpeta Medical College and Hospital. The decision, made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday, March 11, 2026, aims to align the institution’s name with other state-run medical colleges .

Alignment with State Naming Conventions

According to Chief Minister Sarma, the renaming is a result of the college’s unique naming convention, differing from the other 15 medical colleges established by the state government, which are named after their respective locations . The discrepancy led to questions about whether FAAMCH was a private institution.

Honoring Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s Legacy

Despite the renaming, the government recognizes the significance of Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, who served as the fifth President of India from 1974 to 1977, and was the first president from Assam . Chief Minister Sarma stated that another educational or cultural institution in the state will be named after him to honor his contributions . A decision regarding this new naming will be made at a later date.

About FAAMCH

Established in 2011, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College and Hospital is the fifth medical college in Assam, offering both undergraduate and postgraduate medical courses. The hospital currently has a capacity of 500 beds and 125 seats for the MBBS program.