NMC ends routine faculty eligibility clearances, puts onus on colleges

NMC ends routine faculty eligibility clearances, puts onus on colleges

Anuja.Jaiswal@timesofindia.com 

New Delhi : 19.07.2026

Medical colleges across the country will now decide faculty appointments and promotions on their own, with National Medical Commission (NMC) ending routine eligibility clearances. Only exceptional cases involving regulatory ambiguity will be taken up by regulator for a non-refundable fee of Rs 25,000 plus GST. 

The decision comes after the regulator observed that a large number of requests from faculty members, medical colleges, universities and NBEMS-accredited hospitals were being referred to it despite the Medical Institutions (Qualifications of Faculty) Regulations, 2025, clearly laying down the qualifications, teaching experience, research publication and training requirements for teaching posts. 

Officials said the responsibility for deciding whether a candidate is eligible for. promotion or designation rests with the appointing authority, medical institution or university concerned. Accordingly, Post Graduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB) will no longer entertain cases where eligibility can be decided directly under the regulations. 

Only cases involving genuine ambiguity, difficulty in interpreting regulations, equivalence of qualifications or transitional provisions will be considered by PGMEB. Such references must be routed through the dean, director, principal or registrar of the institution with supporting documents.

Individuals may approach NMC directly only if their institution fails to forward a genuine case within 60 days, after fulfilling the prescribed conditions and paying the stipulated fee.

 “Many candidates approached the NMC even in straightforward cases because an NMC eligibility certificate was rarely questioned,” MARB president Prof M K Ramesh told TOI. NMC has also introduced a review mechanism for applicants dissatisfied with an institution’s decision.

With 15k MBBS seats, K’taka now leads medical edu race

With 15k MBBS seats, K’taka now leads medical edu race 

6 Govt Colleges File Appeals Seeking More

 Sruthy Susan Ullas & Srinivasa M | TNN 

Bengaluru :  19.07.2026

Karnataka has become the state with the highest number of MBBS seats in the country this year, with the total rising to 15,395. The tally could increase further, as six govt medical colleges have filed appeals seeking additional seats 

The latest increase comes from three govt colleges — HK Patil Institute of Medical Sciences, Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute, and Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences — each of which has been allotted 50 additional MBBS seats. 

Across the state’s 24 govt medical colleges, the existing intake stood at 4,250 seats. With the addition of 150 seats, the total govt MBBS intake has now risen to 4,400. 

Two new private medical colleges — Alva’s Institute of Medical Sciences and Chettinad Institute of Medical Education — have been granted 150 and 100 seats, respectively. In addition, 15 other private colleges have received approval for increased intake. 

PES University Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Sri Siddhartha Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, and BGS Global Institute of Medical Sciences have each been allotted 100 additional seats, while the remaining colleges have received 50 seats each. Altogether, private medical colleges have added 1,150 seats, taking their total MBBS intake to 10,995.

 “Compared to private medical colleges, only a handful of govt medical colleges have 250 seats despite handling a much larger patient load and higher admissions in their teaching hospitals. Increasing intake in govt colleges will benefit both Karnataka students and candidates under the All-India quota. The National Medical Commission (NMC) should consider this factor while increasing seats,” a medical education department official said.

 “Six govt colleges — in Karwar, Yadgir, Koppal, Haveri, Kodagu, and Shivamogga — have 1 appealed. We’re hopeful as NMC continues granting approvals until the last minute if the govt gives an undertaking to address deficiencies,” said Sujatha Rathod, director of medical education. 

The new seat matrix released by Medical Assessment and Rating Board of NMC shows that the intake at govt run Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS) has increased from 150 to 200 seats. Farookh Academy of Medical Education Hospital and Research Institute, Mysuru, has also been permitted to raise its intake from 100 to 150 seats. 

MIMS director Dr Narashimhaswamy P said: “We will meet all the requirements stipulated by NMC for increasing the intake.” Last year, the annual MBBS intake at the century-old Mysore Medical College and Research Institute was increased from 200 to 250 seats. Another premier institution in the city, JSS Medical College, also has an annual intake of 250 seats. There is, however, no change in the annual intake of four other govt medical colleges in the region — Chikkamagaluru Institute of Medical Sciences, Chamarajanagar Institute of Medical Sciences, Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences and Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences. The Hassan institute continues to have an annual intake of 200 seats, while the other three colleges have 150 seats each.

NMC moves to allow for-profit med colleges Non Profit Tag May No Longer Be Mandatory

NMC moves to allow for-profit med colleges Non Profit Tag May No Longer Be Mandatory

Rema.Nagarajan@timesofindia.com 18.07.2026

For-profit medical colleges may become a reality if the draft amendments to National Medical Commission’s (NMC) regulations for establishing a new medical college go through.

The proposed amendments to Establishment of New Medical Institutions, Assessment & Rating Regulations, 2023, which were placed in the public domain on July 13, include one that will allow companies with the primary objective of profit generation to become eligible to establish medical colleges or medical institutions. Objections and suggestions to the draft are to be submitted within 30 days.

The 2023 regulation allowed only “Section 8 companies” to establish medical colleges. Under Section 8 of Companies Act, such a company is a non-profit organisation in which surpluses can only be reinvested in charitable objectives. The amendment will allow all companies incorporated under Companies Act, 2013, to start medical colleges.

In Jan 2017, the erstwhile Medical Council of India (MCI) amended Establishment of Medical College Regulations, 1999, to allow all companies registered under Companies Act, 1956, to be listed among organisations permitted to set up a medical college.

The same amendment notification also allowed any autonomous body/society/trust to be converted into a company. However, MCI was disbanded and replaced by NMC, constituted in Sept 2019. The fresh regulations for establishment of medical colleges drafted by NMC allowed only Section 8 companies to set up colleges.

In May 2017, Vedanta, the mining conglomerate, established the first private limited medical college, Vedantaa Institute of Medical Sciences, in Palghar through the entity Vedantaa Institutes of Academic Excellence Private Limited. The institute wrote to Maharashtra govt that since it was registered as a private company, it was allowed to make profits and that its fees did not require approval of the state fee regulatory authority. Though the institute was later forced to submit to fee regulation, its fees remain among the highest among private medical colleges in the state ( ₹15.7 lakh for management seats in 2025), barring deemed university colleges.

Ironically, fees charged by deemed university medical colleges, which are established by trusts and societies and are supposed to be non-profit, are among the highest, and states do not have any quota of seats with lower fees in these institutions. Fees charged by these colleges are not controlled by any regulatory body.

GOING EXTRA MILE: The 2023 regulation allowed only ‘Section 8 companies’ to establish medical colleges

NMC adds 950 MBBS seats to state roster Clears Decks For 9,911 More Seats In India

NMC adds 950 MBBS seats to state roster Clears Decks For 9,911 More Seats In India

 TIMES NEWS NETWORK 16.07.2026

Chennai : Medical colleges across Tamil Nadu together expanded MBBS seats by 950 this year, with 13 existing institutions raising their intake. A new private college, APS Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, was added to the roster with 150 seats, according to a seat matrix released by the National Medical Commission. 

The additions bring the state’s capacity to 13,999 seats across 78 medical colleges for the academic year 2026-27, up from 13,049 seats at 77 colleges. 

Across India, NMC has cleared the decks for 9,911 additional seats — including 2,111 seats in govt colleges. The list does not include central govt institutions such as AIIMS. Namakkal, Thiruvallur and Tirupur govt colleges each expanded their intake from 100 to 150 seats, adding 150 seats in the public sector, taking the seat tally in 37 govt colleges to 5,349. Among private institutions, NMC has permitted an increase of 800 seats, including the newcomer. 

Of these, 150 are added to three deemed universities. The remaining 650 will be added to the state matrix, for which the state selection committee will conduct admissions. The additions come as a consolation for a state that has lost 800 MBBS seats from its own counselling matrix after some self-financing colleges and private universities were granted deemed university status. Seats from at least four institutions are expected to be removed from the state list and included instead in the Central pool overseen by Medical Counselling Committee. 

Admission to deemed universities, conducted by the MCM, follows merit in NEET but has no reservations. The annual tuition fee is at about ₹20 lakh. In Tamil Nadu, selffinancing colleges and private universities offer up to 60% seats for govt quota, for which the selection committee follows 69% rule of reservation, and sets aside 7.5% seats for govt school students. 

The annual tuition fee varies from ₹4.35 lakh to ₹5.40 lakh for govt quota seats, and ₹15 lakh to ₹16.20 lakh for managementquota seats. The net effect may not be a squeeze, said a senior official. “150 seats in govt colleges and 650 from private colleges will be added in the state basket,” he added. Health minister K G Arunraj said the state is going ahead with negotiations and moving courts against the grant of deemed university status to some universities. “But the state will ensure new seats are added to the seat matrix,” he said.

NMC flipflops, puts onus on minister for patient appeals

NMC flipflops, puts onus on minister for patient appeals

 5 Months Ago, Panel Had Said Will Hear Pleas 

Rema.Nagarajan@timesofindia.com 12.06.2026

National Medical Commission (NMC) continues its flipflop over whether patients and their families should be allowed to file appeals before it. The commission decided in Sept 2024 that its ethics board would entertain all appeals, including those filed by nonmedicos, and confirmed this decision in Dec 2025. Five months later, in May, the commission’s ethics section claimed any interpretation of NMC Act’s provisions ought to be done by health ministry. “NMC had agreed that all appeals received by EMRB will be entertained. Further, as regards action not being taken by State Medical Councils on complaints filed by non-medicos even after issuance of reminders by the boards, it was decided to send acommunication by EMRB to State Medical Councils to complete the process in a timebound manner. 

In case of failure by the concerned SMC to act upon, EMRB may take over the complaint/matter from the SMC and dispose the same. This is noted by EMRB, and board will proceed further accordingly,” state minutes of the 16th meeting of NMC held on Sept 3, 2024, which were confirmed in the 17th meeting on Dec 16, 2025. However, NMC chairperson Dr Abhijat Sheth, when asked why NMC, as an autonomous body, was seeking health ministry’s interpretation for what was decided in the NMC meeting, claimed wider stakeholder consultation and examination of statutory/regulatory provisions was going on. He added “NMC has not framed a SOP in this regard yet”. When the ministry was asked to intervene on behalf of patients to allow appeals before NMC, the ministry stated the commission was the apex statutory body constituted under NMC Act, 2019, for regulating medical education and profession in the country. “All matters relating to framing, amendment, and implementation of medical education regulations fall within the domain of NMC,” stated the ministry response. 

“There would be issues if unrestricted appeals are allowed and the members/experts are also deliberating regarding the need for a filtering mechanism. Meanwhile, patients and complainants are not left without remedies. They can also avail other legal remedies under applicable civil, criminal or consumer laws,” said Sheth. 

Since Sept 2020, when NMC was constituted, it has received 273 patient appeals against decisions of SMCs that have all been rejected. That’s barely 55 complaints a year or roughly one a week on average which, the chairperson claims, needs a filtering mechanism. NMC initially insisted that only doctors had the right to appeal before it. However, clause 8.8 of the ethics regulation of 2002, which is still in force, clearly allows patients and their families to appeal before NMC. The incorporation of this clause in the regulation was the result of a Supreme Court order.

NMC proposes to reinstate 10-year rule in MBBS without diluting rigour

NMC proposes to reinstate 10-year rule in MBBS without diluting rigour

The proposed relaxation is likely to benefit students facing academic losses, and health concerns, offering them more flexibility 

Rajlakshmi.Ghosh@timesofindia.com 08.06.2026 EDUCATION TIMES 

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has proposed a key amendment to the Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023, which could give MBBS students an additional year to complete their undergraduate medical education, taking the total duration to 10 years. The draft notification, titled ‘Graduate Medical Education (Amendment) Regulations, 2026’, has been placed in the public domain for feedback and objections. 

Under the existing regulations, students are required to complete the MBBS programme within nine years from the date of admission. The proposed amendment seeks to extend this limit to 10 years, including the compulsory rotating medical internship, offering students greater flexibility to manage academic, personal, or unforeseen challenges during the programme. 

Speaking to Education Times , NMC officials say, “The proposed amendment seeks to provide limited additional flexibility to students for completion of the MBBS programme in exceptional circumstances, while fully preserving the academic standards and competency requirements prescribed under the Graduate Medical Education Regulations (GMER) 2023. The amendment does not reduce, dilute or waive any academic requirement. Students will continue to be required to successfully complete all professional examinations, mandatory competencies and the Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship before being awarded the MBBS degree. 

The proposal merely extends the maximum permissible period for completion of the course from nine years to 10 years.” Medical education being a long-duration programme, students may occasionally face genuine academic, personal, health-related or other unforeseen circumstances that interrupt the normal progression of their studies. “The proposed amendment is intended to address such situations in a humane and pragmatic manner without compromising educational standards,” the officials add. 

A former NMC official on condition of anonymity, points out that the proposed amendment will be beneficial for students from rural Rajasthan, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, who have entered medical education through NEET but struggle to follow lessons in English. “The additional year can be a critical buffer, reducing the risk of students dropping out early due to language barriers,” he adds. 

Cap on Attempts 

Under the proposed changes, no student will be allowed more than four attempts to clear the first professional MBBS examination, a provision that remains unchanged. However, students would be allowed to continue the undergraduate medical course for up to 10 years from the date of admission, including the internship period. 

This is in alignment with the NMC’s Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate (FMGL) regulations, 2021. “A cap of four attempts in the first professional exam is unjustified, more so if students are in their first year and are still new to the system. If all MBBS students are given one year’s additional time, then why restrict them at a crucial stage?

 Further, the proposal will give private players an opportunity to blackmail students if they have faltered on fee payment. The cap could be used as a tool to instil fear among them with threats of imminent failure if they do not pay up,” the source adds. 

The proposed relaxation which seeks to bring back the 10-year rule, is likely to benefit students facing academic losses, health concerns, personal emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances, offering them more flexibility to complete their medical education without losing eligibility

7 medical colleges not paying stipend to MBBS interns, residents- NMC tells Supreme Court, penalty proceedings initiated

7 medical colleges not paying stipend to MBBS interns, residents- NMC tells Supreme Court, penalty proceedings initiated

Written By : Barsha Misra

Published On 5 June 2026 3:46 PM | Updated On 5 June 2026 3:46 PM

New Delhi: The issue of non-payment of stipend to medical students exists only in 7 out of 756 medical colleges, the National Medical Commission (NMC) recently informed the Supreme Court.

Filing a chart, NMC has submitted the details regarding the status of payment of stipend made to interns/junior residents/senior residents by the respective medical colleges.

According to the Apex Medical Commission, there is no dispute with regard to payment of stipend by 573 colleges, and 176 medical colleges have been established in the recent past; as such, the question of payment of stipend would not arise in those 176 medical colleges.

The Commission has also assured that it has already taken steps by issuing show cause notices for the levying of a penalty to those seven medical colleges, which are not paying stipend.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that the Supreme Court had taken note of an allegation that MBBS interns in 70 percent of the medical colleges in the country were not paid a stipend. Accordingly, after the Supreme Court's directions, NMC had given a deadline to the medical colleges to submit the details of the stipend paid to their UG Interns, Post-Graduate Residents, and Senior Residents of PGs in Super Speciality for the financial year 2023-2024 by 23rd April 2024.

The medical colleges were directed to submit the details of their name and address, the amount of stipend paid by the State Government, and the month-wise details of the stipend paid to the MBBS interns, 1st/2nd/3rd-year Post-Graduate Residents, and 1st/2nd/3rd-year Senior Residents or PGs in Super Specialty for the academic year 2023-2024.

Back in November, 2024, NMC slapped show-cause notices on 198 institutes for not complying with the Commission's directives to upload the details of the stipend paid to the interns and resident doctors.

Last year, the Supreme Court slammed NMC for failing to take any action against the erring institute. Expressing its hope and trust that the "NMC would wake up from its slumber" and take appropriate steps as indicated in its notice dated 11.07.2025 by the next date of hearing, the Court had also directed the Commission to file an affidavit enclosing the list of medical colleges which have furnished the stipend details.

Recently. NMC's counsel submitted before the Supreme Court bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and P B Varale the details regarding the status of payment of stipend made to interns/junior residents/senior residents by the respective medical colleges

"It is stated therein that out of 756 medical colleges of under graduates there is no dispute with regard to payment of stipend by 573 colleges and 176 medical colleges have been established in the recent past and as such the question of payment of stipend would not arise in those 176 medical colleges. He would also submit that 7 medical colleges have not being paying stipend for which the NMC has already taken steps by issuing show cause notices for levying of penalty and on receipt of reply further steps would be taken by them. He would also add that one medical college has remained closed and there are no interns in the said college. He further elaborates his submission by contending that 562 colleges are running post graduate courses and they are paying the stipend to the interns and only two medical colleges do not have any interns and as such question of payment of stipend by these two (2) colleges would not arise. His submission is placed on record," the Apex Court bench noted.

The top court bench appointed advocate Charu Mathur as a nodal counsel and directed the advocates appearing for the parties to furnish synopsis, charts and pleadings to her.

"Ms. Charu Mathur, learned counsel, is appointed as a nodal counsel and the learned advocates appearing for the parties are requested to furnish synopsis, charts and pleadings to her and a convenience compilation shall be prepared and be furnished to the Court for issuing further directions in these matters wherever necessary, by the next date of hearing," ordered the Apex Court, while listing the matter for further hearing on August 24, 2026.

SC relief to Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, admissions allowed for 150 MBBS, 49 PG seats

SC relief to Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, admissions allowed for 150 MBBS, 49 PG seats

03.06.2026

Written By : Barsha MisraPublished On 2 June 2026 4:39 PM | Updated On 2 June 2026 4:39 PM

Supreme Court of India

 New Delhi: Granting major relief, the Supreme Court recently allowed the Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (HIMSR) to proceed with admissions to 150 MBBS seats and 49 postgraduate medical seats for the academic year 2026-2027.

The medical admissions at the medical institute had earlier faced uncertainty due to a dispute over affiliation consent. While considering the matter, the Apex Court bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan held that the consent of affiliation shall be deemed to have been granted by Jamia Hamdard Deemed to be University, subject to the outcome of the ongoing legal battle between two branches of the Hamdard family.

"Consequently, in continuation of our earlier order dated 11.02.2026, we observe that the Consent of Affiliation is deemed to have been granted by the first respondent-University in favour of the third petitioner-institution subject to the result of this Special Leave Petition for the academic year 2026-2027. This is particularly in respect of 150 seats of MBBS and 49 seats post-graduate seats for the very same academic year, namely, 2026-2027," the bench observed.

"We again observe that the aforesaid order is passed having regard to the peculiar facts of this case where there is an arbitral dispute between two branches of the family and arbitral proceedings are subject to adjudication in this Special Leave Petition," it added.

Background:

The plea before the top court bench was filed seeking directions for the issuance of enrolment numbers to 49 PG students, restoration of access to the NMC portal, and the grant of consent of affiliation for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported on the ongoing conflict between HIMSR and Jamia Hamdard University. Allegedly, HIMSR was facing challenges due to the ongoing legal and administrative dispute between the founding family members, which led to the withdrawal of affiliation to HIMSR by Jamia Hamdard.

The dispute followed a family settlement dividing control over institutes operating under the Hamdard umbrella. Earlier, citing objections under the UGC Act and UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023, Jamia Hamdard had withdrawn consent of affiliation to HIMSR.

Last year, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC), while releasing the tentative list of medical colleges and the MBBS seat matrix for NEET 2025 counselling, allotted zero seats to HIMSR.

Earlier this year, the issue concerning the PG medical admissions to the institute reached the Supreme Court, which had granted relief to the institute by allowing the addition of 49 postgraduate medical seats at the institute for the NEET PG counselling for the academic year 2025-2026.

The apex court bench of Justice B.V. Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan had issued specific directions in this regard to the National Medical Commission, which had earlier withdrawn the 49 MD seats at the institute based on purported letters of Jamia Hamdard (Deemed University).

Following this, on February 11, 2026, after the admission of 49 PG students through the counselling process, the Court deemed consent of affiliation to have been granted in favour of the institute, subject to the outcome of the case.

Last week, during the hearing of the matter, the counsel for the petitioners, Senior Advocate Dhruv Mehta, submitted that unless access to the NMC portal was restored and affiliation-related issues were resolved, HIMSR would be unable to fill up its 150 MBBS seats for the 2026-2027 academic year.

On the other hand, the counsel for Jamia Hamdard, Senior Advocate P. Chidambaram, submitted that the university would not stand in the way of orders being passed in the interest of students. However, the counsel raised concerns over compliance with Regulations 26, 31 and 34 the UGC, observations made by an Expert Committee and also the issues highlighted in a CAG report.

He submitted that any lapse on the part of the college may jeopardize not only the interest of the petitioner-college but also of the respondent-University. Therefore, he submitted that certain directions may be issued to the petitioners in the context of those compliances.

Taking note of the submissions, the Apex Court bench issued directions for the issuance of enrolment numbers to 49 PG students, restoration of access to the NMC portal and acceptance of the institute's disclosure reports. It also directed the University to issue Consent of Affiliation to HIMSR in respect of 150 UG seats and 49 PG seats for the academic year 2026-2027, and mentioned that in the alternative, deemed Consent of Affiliation be granted to Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research in respect of 150 UG Seats and 49 PG seats for the academic year 2026-2027

"The pendency of this Special Leave Petition would not come in the way of the High Court adjudicating the Writ Petition(s) pending before it. The Writ Petition(s) shall be disposed of as expeditiously as possible," the top court bench clarified.

To view the order, click on the link below:

https://medicaldialogues.in/pdf_upload/2026/06/02/jamia-hamdard-351445.pdf

AI may assist doctors make medicine smarter

AI may assist doctors make medicine smarter 

TIMES EDUCATION 01.06.2026

Automation improves decision-making, but human precision has an edge during treatment, writes Anubhav Mishra 

From crowded OPDs to overworked doctors, India’s healthcare system is under pressure. With Artificial Intelligence (AI) entering the system, and many fearing job losses, the bigger story is how it can support doctors and improve patient care. AI is often discussed as a threat to jobs. Across industries, people worry that machines will replace humans. But healthcare tells a different story, especially in India, where the real challenge is not too many workers, but too few. 

India’s healthcare system faces a serious workforce gap. Hospitals are expanding, patient loads are rising, but trained professionals are not keeping pace. Even premier institutions struggle with shortages. Recent reports indicate that many public hospitals have significant vacancies in doctor and specialist positions, affecting service delivery. Globally, the situation is similar. 

According to McKinsey & Company, the world could face a shortage of nearly 10 million healthcare workers by 2030. This makes it clear: healthcare needs more support, not fewer people. This is where AI comes in. AI refers to systems that can analyse data, identify patterns, and assist in decision-making. In healthcare, this includes reading X-rays, predicting disease risks, managing patient records, and even suggesting treatment pathways. It does not replace human judgement, but it enhances it. 

Increasing Usage 

In India, AI adoption in healthcare is already growing rapidly. More than 40% of clinicians are now using AI tools in some form, a sharp increase in recent years. This shows that AI is not a distant concept; it is already part of everyday medical practice. The benefits are significant. First, AI can improve diagnosis and early detection. Advanced AI systems can analyse medical images with high accuracy, helping detect diseases such as cancer and lung conditions faster. In India, AI tools trained on large datasets have achieved over 95% accuracy in identifying multiple diseases from scans, reducing reporting time and improving outcomes. AI can make healthcare more efficient. Doctors in India often spend a large part of their time on administrative tasks such as documentation, scheduling, and record-keeping. AI can automate these processes, freeing up valuable time. 

In fact, hospitals are already experimenting with AI tools that can save doctors two to three hours per day by handling routine tasks. AI can expand access to healthcare, especially in rural India. Many villages lack access to specialists, and patients often travel long distances for basic care. AI-powered tools, combined with telemedicine, can help bridge this gap by enabling faster diagnosis and remote consultations. Studies suggest that AI can significantly improve healthcare access and reduce delays in underserved areas. The economic impact is also noteworthy. 

AI in healthcare could contribute up to $30 billion to India’s GDP by 2025, highlighting its growing importance in the sector. However, the key question remains: will AI replace healthcare jobs? The answer is no, but it will change them. AI is best suited for tasks that involve data, repetition, and pattern recognition. This means roles such as medical transcription, diagnostics support, and administrative processing will evolve significantly. However, healthcare is not just about data; it is about people. Jobs that require empathy, trust, and human interaction are much harder to replace. Nurses, caregivers, and frontline health workers play a critical role in patient care that machines cannot replicate. A machine cannot comfort a patient, understand their emotional distress, or build trust with the families. Even for doctors, AI acts as an assistant, not a replacement. It provides insights, reduces workload, and improves decision-making, but the final judgement remains human. Reducing Burnout 

In fact, AI may help reduce burnout among healthcare professionals by allowing them to focus more on patients rather than the rigorous paperwork. However, challenges do remain. India still faces gaps in digital infrastructure, data quality, and AI training. Without proper investment and regulation, the full benefits of AI may not be realised. The future of healthcare jobs in India is not about humans versus machines. It is about humans working with machines. AI will not solve the workforce crisis on its own. It can be a powerful part of the solution. By improving efficiency, expanding access, and supporting doctors, AI can help India deliver better healthcare to more people. 

The real opportunity lies in preparing the workforce for this technological shift. Doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who learn to work with AI will be better equipped for the future. Because in healthcare, technology may assist, but humanity will always lead. (The author is professor, Marketing, Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow) 

Data-Driven Model AI can shift India’s healthcare system from reactive to proactive care. Instead of treating diseases after they occur, AI can help predict risks and enable preventive care. According to a KPMG–FICCI report, AI is driving Indian healthcare towards a more data-driven, preventive model.

AIIMS Gorakhpur allows 5 attempts for MBBS exams

AIIMS Gorakhpur allows 5 attempts for MBBS exams

Written By : Barsha MisraPublished On 11 May 2026 6:05 PM | Updated On 11 May 2026 9:46 PM

Gorakhpur: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Gorakhpur has decided to grant five attempts to MBBS students to pass the exam, instead of four. The institute has implemented this arrangement from the current academic session.

The decision to grant an additional opportunity to the MBBS students was taken by the Standing Committee of the institute on compassionate grounds at a meeting held a few days ago.

Under the current regulations, MBBS students who fail to clear the exam are given four opportunities to clear the exam. If a student fails to clear the exam within the granted attempts, they are prevented from continuing their studies.

As per the latest media report by Jagran, considering the students' future, the AIIMS administration has decided to adopt a humanitarian approach and decided to provide an additional opportunity to the students. The Daily has reported that the students can avail this additional attempt to clear the exam based on a mercy petition.

Commenting on the matter, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Major General (Retd.) Dr. Vibha Dutta told the Daily that according to the AIIMS regulations, previously, unsuccessful students used to get only four chances. However, keeping the students' future in mind, a decision has been taken to grant an additional opportunity on compassionate grounds.

However, Dr. Dutta clarified that if the MBBS students fail even after the fifth atempt, they will not be given any further opportunities.

As per the existing rules prescribed by the National Medical Commission (NMC), MBBS students are given a total of four attempts to clear their first professional examination.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that setting a limit regarding the number of attempts to clear the MBBS examination, NMC had clarified in GMER 2023, "Provided under no circumstances the student shall be allowed more than four (04) attempts for first year (First Professional MBBS) and no student shall be allowed to continue undergraduate medical course after nine (09) years from the date of admission into the course, mentioned the Regulations."

Back in 2023, the Apex Medical Commission granted one extra attempt to the MBBS batches of 2019 and 2020 to qualify for their first professional exam. NMC took this decision because these batches were affected by COVID.

Recently, the Department-related Parliamentary Committee on Health and Family Welfare in its 172nd report pointed out that permitting students only four attempts to clear the MBBS first professional examination can be overly stringent for many students adjusting to the demanding nature of medical education. Therefore, the panel suggested increasing the permissible limit to six attempts.

However, the panel has opined that the students must complete the entire MBBS course within a maximum period of ten years from the date of admission.

Top 5 toughest medical exams in the world

Top 5 toughest medical exams in the world

etimes.in | May 14, 2026, 08.49 AM IST

Almost everyone wants to be a doctor while growing up. The allure is, of course, undeniable: the opportunity to save lives; the respect that comes with the white coat. From the outside, it is indeed a glamorous job. But those who finally make it to medical school and get to wear that white coat and a stethoscope are the ones who have gone through some of the most brutal examinations ever designed—exams that require years of preparation and can be demanding in every possible way. From the USMLE in the United States to the UK’s GAMSAT, these competitive medical examinations are designed to filter out only the best.When people talk about the toughest medical entrance exams globally, India’s NEET UG always finds a place on the list. The pressure around it is even more grueling than the syllabus and difficulty level. In 2026 alone, NEET UG saw a 96.92% turnout, with over 22 lakh candidates competing for approximately 1.3 lakh MBBS seats across the nation. This alone highlights the high stakes in medical education. Let’s take a look at the top five toughest medical exams in the world and what makes them so challenging.

USMLE

The United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is often considered one of the toughest competitive exams in the world. This test is known for its notorious difficulty. USMLE is a three-step licensure exam for doctors who want to practise medicine in the United States. The first test focuses on comprehensive medical knowledge of basic sciences and is particularly feared by medical students, with only about 85% passing on their first attempt. The second evaluates the ability to apply medical knowledge, and skills. The third step assesses whether candidates can apply medical knowledge and understanding of biomedical and clinical science essential for the unsupervised practice of medicine. These three-step exams are taken over a period of several years, with the lowest pass rates in the first step.

MCAT

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is the gateway exam for prospective medical students in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the Caribbean islands. MCAT has earned quite a reputation for its difficulty. Administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges, this exam assesses scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and psychological concepts. The seven hours of a gruelling exam is tough to crack, with an average pass rate of about 65–70%. This competitive exam demands months of intensive preparation, costing thousands of dollars. American medical schools trust MCAT scores explicitly.

GAMSAT

The Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) is a distinctive exam that stands apart as one of the world's most unusual and psychologically demanding medical entrance tests. This test is the gateway for graduate entry into medical schools in Australia, Ireland, and the UK. Students entering dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary programmes are also required to take this test. This exam is notoriously long—roughly 5.5 to 6 hours. Scientific knowledge, emotional intelligence, and ethical reasoning, among others are assessed in this exam. Pass rates are often between 40–50%. For Australian and British medical schools, GAMSAT's integrity is beyond question.

MRCP

The Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) in the UK is one of the notoriously difficult exams. This is a postgraduate medical qualification for doctors who want to specialise in internal medicine in the UK. This British qualification is a set of three postgraduate exams—MRCP Part 1, MRCP Part 2, and MRCP PACES. Cracking MRCP is nothing short of excellence. Pass rates are normally around 50% because of its difficulty. It is a test of medical excellence that even brilliant doctors attempt multiple times before passing.

PLAB

The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) examination in the UK is another high-stakes licensing examination for international medical graduates seeking registration. PLAB has a two-part format testing both knowledge and clinical skills. Practical competency is an important part of this test, with pass rates for non-UK-trained doctors typically 40–50%.

Disclaimer: This article is based on reports, publicly available data, and information sourced from the internet. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, exam formats, pass rates, and requirements may change over time. Readers are advised to verify details from the official websites of the respective examination authorities for the most up-to-date information.

NMC sets May 30 deadline for MBBS renewal process

NMC sets May 30 deadline for MBBS renewal process

Anuja.Jaiswal@timesofindia.com 15.05.2026

New Delhi : National Medical Commission has directed all medical colleges across the country to submit detailed annual disclosure reports by May 30 for renewal of MBBS seats for the 2026- 27 academic session, warning that no extension will be granted beyond the deadline. 

In a notice issued by the Under-Graduate Medical Education Board, the NMC said all existing medical colleges with approval to run MBBS courses must upload mandatory institutional data on the commission’s portal under the Maintenance of Standards of Medical Education Regulations, 2023. The disclosure process forms a key part of the annual renewal mechanism through which colleges receive permission to continue admitting undergraduate medical students.

The NMC has also made it mandatory for colleges to pay an online processing fee of ₹3.54 lakh, including GST, through the designated portal while applying for renewal of MBBS seats.

Doctors warn parents: Don’t sleep in peace when children snore

Doctors warn parents: Don’t sleep in peace when children snore

Kushagra.Dixit@timesofindia.com 11.05.2026

New Delhi : For many parents, a child’s snoring is little more than a bedtime quirk — an indication of deep sleep or exhaustion after a long day. Doctors, however, warn that persistent snoring, mouth breathing and restless sleep can be red flags for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a potentially serious condition that disrupts breathing during sleep and deprives the brain and body of oxygen. 

For 12-year-old Surya Pratap, loud snoring gradually turned into a health crisis that went unnoticed for nearly two years. While studying at a boarding school, he struggled to sleep through the night, breathed mostly through his mouth and showed falling energy levels. Even routine activities left him fatigued, and breathing through his nose was difficult unless he was physically active. “For two years, our family lived in a state of constant exhaustion,” said his father, Rajesh Kumar, adding,“Seeing him finally breathe normally and regain his energy has been an overwhelming relief.”

Doctors say OSA in children is often missed, even though it disrupts deep sleep essential for growth, learning and emotional regulation. Affected children may wake up tired, struggle to focus in class, become irritable or unusually hyperactive, or show declining academic performance—signs frequently mistaken for behavioural issues or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). “Because he could not breathe properly through his nose during sleep, he was unable to reach the deep restorative stages crucial for a growing child,” said Dr Rajesh Bhardwaj, consultant ENT specialist at MedFirst ENT Centre, who treated Surya. “The body enters a constant stress response,” he added. 

Doctors performed a combination of procedures, including adenoidectomy, septoplasty and turbinectomy, to restore airflow. “The surgery didn’t just stop the snoring; it allowed his normal 1development to resume,” Dr Bhardwaj said. Doctors reported immediate improvement. Health experts warn that untreated sleep apnoea can lead to stunted growth and weakened immunity. “Snoring and mouth breathing point to adenoid enlargement and need proper evaluation,” said Prof Anupam Sibalof Apollo Hospitals Group. Dr Neetu Jain of PSRI Hospital said early treatment was crucial. “Prolonged low oxygen levels can affect brain development, learning and overall growth,” she said. 

11/05/2026, 07:22 The Times of India ePaper: Times of India Newspaper Today, Download PDF Now https://epaper.indiatimes.com/timesepaper/publication-the-times-of-india,city-delhi.cms

Docs condemn NMC advisory NEET-UG 2026

Docs condemn NMC advisory NEET-UG 2026 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 03.05.2026

Hyderabad : The Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association (HRDA), Telangana, has strongly objected to a recent advisory issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC) directing medical colleges to confine students to their hostels on May 2 and May 3 in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 exam. In a letter to the NMC secretary, the association described the directive as inappropriate and demoralising, stating that it unfairly places medical students under suspicion by indirectly linking them to possible malpractice. According to HRDA, such blanket restrictions undermine the dignity of the medical student community. The association further asserted that medical students represent a disciplined group committed to health care service.

NMC nod to cardiology diploma after years of wait

NMC nod to cardiology diploma after years of wait

30.04.2026

New Delhi : In a move that resolves a long-standing regulatory impasse, National Medical Commission (NMC) has granted recognition to Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Cardiology (PGDCC), effectively validating the degrees of around 1,700 doctors who completed the course between 2006 and 2013. 

The programme, run by IGNOU, was effectively shut down after 2013 following its non-recognition by erstwhile Medical Council of India. The decision, announced by Indian Association of Clinical Cardiologists on Tuesday, is also being seen as a step towards addressing shortage of cardiology specialists in underserved regions. The decision comes against the backdrop of cardiovascular disease accounting for nearly 28% of deaths in India, even as access to specialists remains skewed towards cities. 

Nearly 65–70% of the country’s population lives outside major cities, but over 80% of cardiologists are based in urban centres, leaving large regions dependent on general physicians and delayed referrals. India has fewer than 5,000–6,000 cardiologists for over 1.4 billion people—roughly one per 2–3 lakh—which is far below global norms. “India is facing a widening and underreported shortage of cardiology specialists,” said Dr Rakesh Gupta of Indian Academy of Echocardiography. TNN

NMC removes cap on MBBS seats, eases population norm

NMC removes cap on MBBS seats, eases population norm 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 30.04.2026

New Delhi : In a significant policy shift, National Medical Commission (NMC) has removed key restrictions on expansion of MBBS seats, opening the door for a substantial increase in undergraduate medical seats across the country. In a gazette notification issued on April 27, NMC amended its 2023 regulations governing new medical colleges and expansion of existing courses. The amendment deletes a clause that capped total number of MBBS seats at 150 per college for those seeking expansion from 2024–25 academic year. 

Colleges seeking to increase intake will no longer be bound by this upper limit. The commission has also removed the requirement that states maintain a ratio of 100 MBBS seats per 10 lakh population. 

In another change, NMC has revised norms related to the distance between a medical college and its teaching hospital. Instead of a traveltime cap of 30 minutes, the rules now prescribe a maximum distance of 10 km. For northeastern and Himalayan states, the limit has been relaxed to 15 km. 

The amendments have been notified under NMC Act, 2019, and apply to both Undergraduate Medical Education Board’s seat expansion guidelines and Graduate Medical Education Regulations, 2023. The move is expected to benefit both govt and private medical colleges looking to scale up capacity, particularly in states where demand for seats continues to outstrip supply, while placing the onus on regulators to maintain quality and infrastructure standards. 

Commission’s nod to cardiology diploma after years of wait 

New Delhi : In a move that resolves a long-standing regulatory impasse, National Medical Commission has granted recognition to Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Cardiology (PGDCC), effectively validating the degrees of around 1,700 doctors who completed the course between 2006 and 2013. The programme, run by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), was effectively shut down after 2013 following its non-recognition by erstwhile Medical Council of India. The decision, announced by Indian Association of Clinical Cardiologists on Tuesday, is also being seen as a step towards addressing shortage of cardiology specialists in underserved regions. The move comes against the backdrop of cardiovascular disease accounting for nearly 28% of deaths in India, even as access to specialists remains skewed towards cities. TNN

Seat expansion: NMC removes population rule for new medical colleges

Seat expansion: NMC removes population rule for new medical colleges

TNN | Apr 29, 2026, 06.08 AM IST

Ahmedabad: The National Medical Commission (NMC) recently introduced significant changes in its policy for approving new medical colleges, aiming to increase the number of MBBS seats across the country. One of the key decisions is removing the earlier cap that allowed institutions to apply for up to 150 seats. Under the revised norms, colleges with adequate infrastructure and faculty can now apply for higher intake capacities, such as 200 or even 250 seats.

In another major shift, the NMC did away with the population-based restriction that permitted a 100-seat medical college only in areas with a population of at least 10 lakh. With this condition removed, institutions can now set up medical colleges regardless of the region's population size. This move is expected to benefit states such as Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which are keen to expand their medical education infrastructure.

The commission also revised the distance criteria between the hospital and the medical college. Earlier, the rule required that the hospital be reachable within 30 minutes of travel. Now, the updated guidelines specify a maximum distance of 10 kilometres in general areas and up to 15 kilometres in hilly and northeastern regions.

According to sources, these changes will likely lead to a substantial increase in the number of medical seats, as approvals will now depend more on institutional capacity and facilities rather than population ratios.

However, the timing of these changes has raised concerns. More than 100 institutions have already submitted applications based on the previous guidelines. This has created uncertainty over whether approvals will be granted under the old rules or the revised ones, as the NMC has not yet issued a clarification on this matter.

How to prevent future unemployment of doctors? Here are parliamentary panel's recommendations

How to prevent future unemployment of doctors? Here are parliamentary panel's recommendations 

Written By : Barsha MisraP ublished On 20 Apr 2026 2:00 PM | Updated On 20 Apr 2026 2:00 PM

New Delhi: In its 172nd report, a Department-related Parliamentary Committee on Health and Family Welfare has recommended measures to prevent future unemployment of doctors.

The panel has recommended that, along with the rapid expansion of MBBS and postgraduate medical seats under the oversight of the National Medical Commission (NMC), the Department must also ensure robust quality assurance mechanisms to safeguard training standards.

According to the panel, in parallel to setting up new medical colleges, expanding the medical seats, and recognising DNB qualifications, the Department must also strengthen faculty development, clinical exposure, and skill-based training modules across institutes.

Other recommendations by the Parliamentary Committee include periodic accreditation, competency-based assessment, and structured career planning.

Regarding the Government's strategy to ensure quality training and avoid future unemployment or under-skilled surgical specialists, the panel noted that as India rapidly increases MBBS and PG seats under the oversight of the National Medical Commission, the Government of India is systematically expanding medical education to keep pace.

Over the past 11 years, the Government of India has made gains in making quality medical education more accessible. There are now 23 publicly funded and leading All India Institute of Medical Sciences institutes, including the first-ever AIIMS in the northeastern area in Assam. 

There are 2,086 medical colleges, including 818 allopathy, 323 dental and 942 AYUSH institutions. Medical education seats for the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) increased by 151% (from 51,348 to 128976), and postgraduate seats grew by 173% (from 31,185 to 85020). DNB qualification has been recognized for appointment as teaching faculty to take care of shortage of faculty, noted the panel.

To prevent future unemployment of doctors, the panel recommended, "The Committee strongly recommends that the Department must ensure that the rapid expansion of MBBS and PG seats under the oversight of the National Medical Commission is matched with robust quality assurance mechanisms to safeguard training standards and prevent future unemployment or under-skilled specialists. In parallel to the establishment of new medical colleges, seat expansion, and recognition of DNB qualifications, the Committee urges the Department to strengthen faculty development, clinical exposure, and skill-based training modules across institutions."

"Further, the Committee recommends instituting periodic accreditation, competency-based assessments, and structured career planning to align medical education output with national health system needs. By balancing expansion with quality and workforce planning, the Department can ensure that the growing pool of medical graduates and specialists are well-trained, employable, and capable of delivering high-quality healthcare services nationwide," it added.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health has recommended ensuring uniformity in faculty-student and patient-student ratios across all medical institutes, irrespective of ownership.

The committee opined that such uniformity across the medical institutes would help promote equitable clinical exposure, adequate academic mentorship, and consistent training opportunities for the postgraduate medical students across the country.