Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences Achieves Global Recognition in WDoMS

Itanagar, India Jul 18, 2026 ALN: The Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), a premier medical college and tertiary care hospital established in 2017, has achieved a significant milestone by being enlisted in the World Directory of Medical Science (WDoMS). This recognition marks a pivotal moment not just for the institution itself, but also for the broader landscape of medical education in India, particularly in the northeastern region.

The WDoMS, managed by the World Federation for Medical Education and the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER), serves as a comprehensive public database that lists over 4,350 medical schools worldwide. It provides critical information regarding the operational status of schools, curriculum duration, and local governmental recognition. Being part of this directory is essential for medical institutions aiming to gain international recognition and provide their graduates with opportunities to practice medicine globally.

“This is a remarkable achievement as TRIHMS MBBS degree holders will now gain global recognition, facilitating their pursuit of higher education and professional opportunities in countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia,” stated Dr. Naba Kumar Bezbaruah, the director and dean of TRIHMS, in an exclusive interview. The inclusion in WDoMS is expected to enhance the credibility of TRIHMS graduates, thereby increasing their competitiveness in the global job market.

Dr. Bezbaruah revealed that the initiative to enlist TRIHMS in WDoMS was prompted by two students, Dr. Pratik Pandey and Dr. Verbeena Bezbaruah, who highlighted the absence of TRIHMS in the directory. Their proactive approach underscores the importance of student engagement in institutional development. Following this, Dr. Bezbaruah appointed Dr. Goter Doke as the coordinator for the project and approached the National Medical Council (NMC) in New Delhi for assistance, showcasing the collaborative efforts between students and faculty in enhancing the institute's profile.

“The Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification is a mandatory requirement for international medical graduates aiming to enter the U.S. healthcare system. This certification verifies medical credentials and confirms readiness for residency and fellowship programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME),” he explained. The ECFMG certification is a critical step for international medical graduates as it validates their qualifications for practicing medicine in the United States, a process that can be daunting and complex.

With support from the NMC, Dr. Bezbaruah successfully obtained the ‘sponsor note’ from ECFMG for TRIHMS’s enlistment in WDoMS. This sponsor note is crucial as it serves as a validation of the institution's educational standards and its alignment with international medical education requirements. Moreover, he noted that the certificate issued by Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) was enhanced to meet global standards in consultation with acting Vice Chancellor Prof. S.K. Nayak, indicating a commitment to maintaining a high level of academic excellence.

“The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a rigorous three-step examination required for medical licensure in the United States. It assesses a physician’s ability to apply medical knowledge and clinical skills to ensure patient safety and care. This examination is quite challenging,” Dr. Bezbaruah added. The USMLE is a critical hurdle for many international medical graduates, and TRIHMS's recognition in WDoMS will likely provide its graduates with better preparation and resources to tackle this examination successfully.

This development opens doors for deserving students to pursue higher studies or professional opportunities in developed nations. As of now, 49 students from the first batch (2018) graduated in May 2024, and 46 students from the second batch are expected to graduate in June 2025. The growing number of graduates reflects the institute's commitment to producing competent healthcare professionals ready to meet the demands of the medical field.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge extended his congratulations to TRIHMS for receiving the ECFMG Sponsor Note and being enlisted in WDoMS on July 13. He stated, “This remarkable achievement will create new avenues for TRIHMS MBBS graduates to pursue higher education, residency, and professional opportunities in the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries, subject to prescribed eligibility requirements. This will have significant long-term benefits in the fields of medical education and research, job opportunities, and enhance TRIHMS's status as a medical college.” This endorsement from the health minister not only highlights the importance of TRIHMS's achievement but also emphasizes the potential impact on the healthcare landscape in the region.

Minister Wahge also commended the leadership of Dr. Bezbaruah, Dr. Doke, and the students involved in this milestone, wishing the institute continued success in reaching greater heights. The recognition from WDoMS is expected to encourage further investment in medical education and healthcare infrastructure in the region, which has historically faced challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals.

The implications of TRIHMS's inclusion in the WDoMS extend beyond individual graduates. It signifies a growing recognition of the quality of medical education in India and the potential for Indian medical graduates to contribute to global health. As more Indian institutions gain international recognition, the country could solidify its position as a hub for medical education and healthcare training, attracting students from around the world.

Furthermore, this achievement may inspire other medical colleges in India, particularly in underserved regions, to strive for similar recognition, thereby improving the overall standard of medical education across the country. The focus on quality education and international standards can lead to enhanced healthcare delivery systems, benefiting not just the graduates but also the communities they serve.

In conclusion, the enlistment of the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences in the World Directory of Medical Science is a landmark achievement that heralds a new era for the institute and its graduates. It reflects the dedication of the faculty, students, and administration to advancing medical education and improving healthcare outcomes in the region and beyond. As TRIHMS continues to grow and evolve, it is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of healthcare in India and contributing to the global medical community.