Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research originated as École de Médicine de Pondichérry established by the French Government in the year 1823.

This medical school was converted into Dhanvantari Medical College at the time of de facto transfer of Pondicherry to Government of India.

This Medical College was later upgraded into Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER).