Karnataka regulator permits SMSIMSR to offer half of government quota seats free

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has granted permission to Sri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute (SMSIMSR) to offer half of its government quota medical seats at zero cost to qualifying candidates. The directive allows the institution to implement this policy for the ongoing admission cycle, potentially widening access to medical education for deserving students across the state. Under the new arrangement, students who satisfy the admission requirements and comply with the institution's specified conditions become eligible to secure these tuition-free seats. The move represents an effort to balance accessibility with institutional sustainability in the provision of medical education. SMSIMSR can continue to fill the remaining 50 percent of its government quota seats under existing fee structures. The initiative is expected to benefit students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds seeking admission to the institution's medical programs.