Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, May 24: In a disturbing revelation, a nationwide survey conducted by the National Medical Council (NMC) has brought to light glaring irregularities in the disbursement of stipends to postgraduate (PG) medical students enrolled in private and self-financed colleges across the country.
According to official sources, out of 10,178 total responses, a staggering 7,901 valid submissions from PG students in private institutions exposed systemic malpractice and widespread non-compliance with stipulated norms. Alarmingly, 2,110 students reported that they were not paid any stipend by their institutions — a clear violation of ethical and regulatory standards.
Adding to the concern, 4,288 students stated that the stipends they receive are far below those offered in government-run medical colleges in the same states. Even more distressing is the testimony of 1,228 students, who claimed that though stipends were credited, college managements forced them to return the money, a practice that raises serious questions about accountability and transparency.
The data was compiled from 213 colleges across 19 states and 2 union territories, making this survey one of the most comprehensive studies on PG stipend practices to date.
Despite a 2023 directive from the NMC mandating fair and uniform stipend payments to PG medical students, the latest findings suggest rampant disregard of the guidelines, particularly in Maharashtra.
Brijesh Sutaria, a parent representative, voiced the frustration of many families: “Despite the NMC notification, private and deemed medical colleges in Maharashtra continue to flout the rules. With the Supreme Court’s recent ruling mandating transparency and fairness in NEET PG counselling, it's time for decisive action from NMC and state authorities.”
Experts and activists have now urged urgent regulatory enforcement, warning that such unethical practices not only exploit students but also degrade the standards of medical education and healthcare delivery.
As calls for intervention grow louder, the medical fraternity and concerned stakeholders await a robust response from the NMC and the Maharashtra Medical Education Department, to ensure justice and uphold the dignity of India’s future doctors.