An expert panel constituted by the Union health ministry has proposed significant reforms to the national postgraduate medical entrance examination process, including a shift from the current percentile-based qualifying system to a merit-based rank system. According to an affidavit filed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare before the Supreme Court, this change is intended to replace the declaration of percentile marks with a system that ranks candidates exclusively. The move is designed to ensure that the sanctity of entrance examinations is preserved, ensuring that candidates possess the necessary standards for postgraduate medical education.
The proposal highlights a range of measures aimed at restructuring postgraduate medical admissions and the working conditions of doctors. Beyond the shift to a rank-based system, the panel has recommended a reduction in fees for non-clinical courses, a move that could potentially alleviate the financial burden on students opting for these specialisations. Furthermore, the affidavit outlines plans for a revised stipend structure for medical residents and the introduction of specific incentives for healthcare professionals who choose to serve in rural areas of the country.
To address recurring administrative challenges, the expert committee has proposed the implementation of biometric verification during the counselling process. This measure is specifically aimed at preventing the issue of seat blocking, where candidates reserve spots in institutions without intending to join, thereby depriving others of the opportunity to secure a seat. By streamlining these processes, the health ministry aims to reduce the total time required for counselling, which would allow academic sessions to commence on schedule.
The affidavit, filed by Dr. Praveen Kumar Dass, Assistant Director General of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, also addressed the issue of salary parity. The panel suggested that there should be no discrimination in salary structures between doctors in clinical and non-clinical branches. Additionally, the recommendations include provisions for salary increments for doctors who complete their super-speciality training, reflecting a broader strategy to incentivise higher education and long-term service in the medical profession.
While the National Medical Commission (NMC) is currently drafting new regulations to incorporate these changes, the proposals are intended for implementation starting from the 2027 counselling cycle. The affidavit noted that the ministry is also investigating the feasibility of sharing result data online directly with Directorates of Medical Education (DMEs) and state counselling authorities. This integration is expected to enhance the transparency and efficiency of the seat allocation process across different states.
Officials familiar with the matter stated that the proposals have been approved in principle. However, the finalisation of these reforms remains subject to the Supreme Court’s directions and the formal notification of the new regulations. An official from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) mentioned that the reforms are being pursued in the best interest of the candidates, focusing on reducing procedural delays and improving the overall management of medical education.
Once the legal framework is established, the regulatory bodies plan to invite suggestions from various stakeholders to fine-tune the implementation process. As the government continues to work towards these systemic improvements, the focus remains on ensuring that postgraduate medical admissions in India are conducted with greater administrative rigour, preventing the dilution of qualifying standards while supporting the needs of medical professionals in both clinical and non-clinical disciplines.
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