She took the initiative to establish such an institution, as the absence of one limited opportunities for Indian women to pursue medical education.

Lady Hardinge actively raised funds for the college from princely states and the public until her death on 11 July 1914.

On the suggestion of Queen Mary, the college and the hospital was named after Lady Hardinge to pay an ode to the memory of its founder.

In February 1978, the management was relinquished in favour of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of India under an Act of Parliament.

The college's Department of Microbiology is internationally acclaimed for its expertise in salmonella phage typing and serves as a World Health Organization collaborating centre for reference and training in streptococcal diseases for the South-East Asia region.

It also includes a sports ground and facilities for extracurricular activities, providing a well-rounded environment for students.