In a move aimed at addressing the perennial issue of vacant Postgraduate (PG) medical seats in India, the Indian government has taken a groundbreaking step. The qualifying percentile for NEET-PG-2023 has been reduced to zero, granting eligibility to all medical graduates for participation in the counseling process for admission to super specialty courses this year.
India boasts nearly 70,000 PG medical seats, a substantial number; however, each year, a significant portion, around 2,000-2,500 seats, remains unoccupied. This persistent problem led health ministry officials to take this unprecedented decision. An official from the health ministry explained that even this year, after two rounds of counseling for NEET-PG, numerous seats in specialized fields like physiology, anatomy, and biochemistry remained unfilled.
The reduction in the qualifying percentile is a one-time measure, primarily focused on facilitating admissions to pre-clinical specialties that are essential for the establishment of new medical colleges across the nation.
In response to this move, opinions within the medical community have been divided. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) have voiced their support for this initiative, recognizing its potential to mitigate the problem of vacant seats. Conversely, the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has expressed opposition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining merit-based admissions.
The government order issued on Wednesday clarified that candidates who have become newly eligible due to the reduction in percentile can register and participate in the third round of counseling. It further stated that already registered candidates need not register again but can modify their choices. A new schedule for the subsequent rounds of PG counseling will be posted on the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) website shortly.
Officials from the National Medical Commission (NMC) defended the significant reduction in the qualifying percentile as a one-time intervention. They highlighted the necessity for teachers in pre-clinical specialties like physiology and anatomy, especially with the establishment of new medical colleges. It was emphasized that despite the zero cut-off, NEET-PG remains relevant, as applicants will still be ranked based on their scores.
The decision has ignited a debate about striking a balance between access to education and merit-based admissions in the medical field. While the reduction in the qualifying percentile has opened doors for many, ensuring that merit receives its due recognition remains a subject of ongoing discussion within the medical fraternity.
