Karwar: The newly-established Karwar Institute of Medical Sciences (KAiMS) is facing shortage of bodies even before the start of its academic activities.

The college has got the nod of the Medical Council of India (MCI) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a letter of permission to start the college. The first batch of 2016-17 academic year will commence with 150 students in August.

Anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and community medicine have been made functional with basic teaching equipment, museum and demo rooms. The staff is also being recruited.

Medical colleges use donated bodies to teach students. “The anatomy department of KAiMS has two bodies as against the required 18. We have requested the Wenlock District Hospital of Mangaluru and Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences to supply bodies,” Medical College director Dr Shivanand M Dodamani told reporters.

Dr Dodamani said the number of people who donate their bodies is decreasing. Most of the bodies the medical colleges are getting are unclaimed ones.

He said the college will take up awareness programmes among people about body donation once it starts academic activities.

Those willing to donate their bodies must discuss their wish with their immediate family, doctors and relevant people before making the decision. The body will be used immediately or preserved for variable periods for future use. After full utilization, the remains will be scientifically disposed.