AIMSA Asks Government to Remove NMC Rule on Onsite Training for Foreign Medical Graduates

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many universities around the world shifted to online classes because of lockdowns, travel restrictions, and safety concerns. Medical universities also adopted online or hybrid learning so that students could continue their studies.

AIMSA said students had no control over this situation and simply followed the teaching methods arranged by their universities.

According to the NMC notice, FMGs who studied online during the pandemic may need to complete additional onsite training to make up for those classes.

However, AIMSA believes this rule is unfair. Many students have already completed their medical education according to the rules that were in place at that time.

Most FMGs also complete important requirements such as passing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or National Exit Test (NEXT) and doing a compulsory internship in India.

The association also pointed out that thousands of Indian students study medicine abroad, especially in countries like Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe.

If this rule is implemented, it could delay the careers of many graduates who are already preparing to start their medical practice in India.

AIMSA has asked the government to take three important steps:

• Withdraw the NMC notice about mandatory onsite compensation training
• Give exemptions to students affected by the pandemic
• Avoid applying new rules to students who enrolled under old regulations

The association said students should not be punished for circumstances that happened during the global pandemic.

The issue has become a major concern among Indian students studying medicine abroad. Many FMGs are now waiting for the government’s response to AIMSA’s request.

Students hope the authorities will consider the challenges faced during the pandemic and take a fair decision that protects their future careers.