In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court of India on Friday overruled the 1967 judgment in the Azeez Basha case, which had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) its minority status. This ruling, delivered by a seven-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, has redefined the principles governing the status of minority institutions in India.

The court’s majority view stated that an institution’s minority character is not lost merely because it was established through a statutory provision, such as a parliamentary enactment. In this landmark decision, the Supreme Court held that a minority institution can be established by a minority group, but its administration does not necessarily have to be managed by members of that minority. This directly contradicts the earlier judgment, which had ruled that AMU could not be considered a minority institution due to its creation by a statute.

The Azeez Basha Case and Its Relevance

In 1967, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court in the Azeez Basha case ruled that Aligarh Muslim University could not be considered a minority institution, as it was created by a Central Act of Parliament. The verdict was based on the premise that a university established by a statute could not enjoy the privileges granted to minority institutions under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

However, the position changed in 1981 when Parliament passed the AMU (Amendment) Act, restoring AMU’s minority status. But in 2006, the Allahabad High Court struck down the provision of the 1981 amendment, asserting that AMU, being a central university, could not be treated as a minority institution.

Dissenting Opinions:

While the majority opinion favored the restoration of minority status for institutions like AMU, two judges, Justices Surya Kant and Dipankar Datta, dissented from the majority view, expressing differing opinions on the matter. Additionally, Justice Satish Chandra Sharma issued a separate opinion, which did not align fully with either the majority or the dissenting opinions, thus leaving the matter open for further legal interpretation.

Implications of the Ruling:

The Supreme Court’s ruling has far-reaching implications for minority educational institutions in India. By emphasizing the functional characteristics of minority institutions over their administrative control, the Court has reinforced the autonomy of such institutions. This decision may encourage more institutions, established by minority communities but managed in a secular manner, to claim and protect their minority status.

Moreover, the ruling ensures that parliamentary legislation cannot arbitrarily alter the minority character of an institution, thereby reinforcing the constitutional safeguards provided to minority communities under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution.

Next Steps for AMU:

Following the judgment, the Supreme Court has referred the AMU minority status issue to a three-judge bench, which will now examine whether the university was truly established by a minority community. This process will involve a fact-based inquiry, which will include the historical context of the university’s creation, the intentions of its founders, and its continued functioning as a center of higher learning for the Muslim community.

The decision to refer the matter to a smaller bench indicates that the final determination of AMU’s minority status will depend on a detailed exploration of facts, including whether the founding minority community’s interests have been preserved in the institution’s operations.

Central govt. announced 16 New Medical Colleges in Bihar and Maharashtra

In a significant move to bolster healthcare education in India, the Central Health and Family Welfare Ministry has approved the establishment of 16 new medical colleges—nine in Bihar and eight in Maharashtra.

 This expansion aims to address the growing demand for medical professionals and improve healthcare access across these states.

Bihar’s New Medical Colleges

Bihar is set to welcome nine new medical institutions in the next few years, with Samastipur Medical College and Saran Medical College poised to commence classes shortly. According to recent reports, the remaining colleges—located in Begusarai, Bhagalpur, Buxar, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Siwan, and Jamui—are expected to be operational within two to three years.

The establishment of these colleges is a critical step toward enhancing medical education in a state that has faced challenges in healthcare accessibility.

By increasing the number of Government MBBS seats, the initiative aims to produce a new generation of healthcare professionals who can serve the local population effectively.

Maharashtra’s New Medical College

Similarly, Maharashtra is set to enhance its medical education infrastructure with the introduction of eight new colleges, which will collectively provide 800 additional MBBS seats.

The recent approval follows the initiation of MBBS programs at two medical colleges in Mumbai and Nashik, each offering 50 seats. The new colleges will be established in various districts, including Amravati, Washim, Jalna, Buldhana, Hingoli, and Bhandara.

This expansion is not just about numbers; it signifies a commitment to improving healthcare services in rural and underserved areas of Maharashtra. By decentralizing medical education, the state aims to ensure that future doctors are equipped to meet the unique healthcare needs of diverse communities.

National Context and Future Prospects

The establishment of new medical colleges in Bihar and Maharashtra aligns with the broader national initiative to enhance medical education.

Uttar Pradesh, for instance, has also seen a surge in new medical institutions, with 17 colleges launched this year as part of the “One District, One Medical College” initiative. Madhya Pradesh has similarly expanded its capacity with three new colleges.

 75,000 medical seats to be Add

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement on Independence Day regarding the addition of 75,000 medical seats over the next five years highlights the government’s commitment to improving healthcare education in India.

This initiative is crucial, especially as many middle-class students feel compelled to pursue medical education abroad due to limited local opportunities.

The establishment of these new medical colleges in Bihar and Maharashtra is a promising development for healthcare education in India.

By increasing access to medical training, the government is taking significant strides toward addressing the healthcare workforce shortages and improving health outcomes across the country.

As these colleges begin to welcome students, the future of medical education in India looks brighter, with the potential for a robust pipeline of healthcare professionals dedicated to serving their communities.

For many aspiring doctors in India, the dream of pursuing an MBBS degree often leads to the consideration of studying abroad. Among the popular choices is Nepal, a country known for its welcoming environment and relatively affordable medical education. However, a pressing question remains: Are MBBS degrees from Nepal valid in India?

 Validity of Nepal MBBS Degrees in India

The recognition of an MBBS degree obtained from Nepal largely depends on the accreditation of the medical institution by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India. The NMC, which replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI), governs the recognition of foreign medical qualifications. To practice medicine in India, graduates must ensure that their college is recognized by the NMC. If the institution is not on the approved list, graduates may face challenges in obtaining the necessary licenses to practice in India.

Accreditation Matters: Choosing the Right College

When considering an MBBS program in Nepal, it is vital to choose an accredited medical college. The NMC maintains a list of recognized institutions, and students should refer to this resource to confirm the status of their chosen college. Accreditation ensures that the education provided meets certain standards, which is essential for recognition in India.

Curriculum Comparisons: Are They Aligned?

Another important aspect to consider is the curriculum. Many Indian students wonder if the MBBS curriculum in Nepal is similar to that in India. Generally, the core subjects—including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine—are aligned. However, there may be variations in teaching methodologies, clinical exposure, and examination formats. Prospective students should research the specific curriculum of their chosen college to ensure it meets their educational needs.

Student Experiences: Navigating Challenges

While many students have had positive experiences studying in Nepal, some have faced challenges that highlight the importance of being well-informed. An anonymous student shared their journey of enrolling in a private medical college, initially filled with hope about securing a license to practice in Nepal. However, changes in regulations left them without the promised licensure, complicating their plans to return to India and practice medicine. This experience serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for thorough research and understanding of licensing processes.

The Path Forward: Making Informed Decisions

As you navigate the journey of pursuing an MBBS degree in Nepal, consider the following steps to ensure a smooth transition into your medical career:

1. Verify Accreditation: Always check the NMC’s official list to confirm that your chosen college is recognized.
2. Understand the Curriculum: Research the curriculum and teaching methods of the institution to ensure they align with your goals.
3. Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about any changes in regulations regarding foreign medical graduates in both Nepal and India.
4. Seek Reliable Guidance: Consult with educational advisors, current students, or alumni to gain insights into the programs you are considering.

while an MBBS degree from Nepal can be a valid option for Indian students, its recognition is dependent on the accreditation of the institution and adherence to licensing requirements. By conducting thorough research and making informed choices, aspiring medical students can embark on their journey with confidence. The road to becoming a doctor is filled with challenges, but with the right information and preparation, students can navigate this landscape and work toward fulfilling their dreams in medicine.

Bilaspur/Raipur: In a monumental step towards revolutionizing healthcare in Chhattisgarh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday virtually inaugurated the Super Specialty Hospital of the Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) in Bilaspur. Alongside this, he laid the foundation stone for the Central Research Institute of Yoga and Naturopathy (CRIYN) in Raipur, marking a dual leap in modern and traditional healthcare for the region.

This significant development is part of the Prime Minister’s broader mission to foster inclusive health services across the nation. Additionally, Modi announced the extension of the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme to benefit senior citizens aged 70 and above, ensuring access to quality healthcare for the elderly.

 CIMS Bilaspur’s Super Specialty Hospital

The newly opened 240-bed super specialty hospital at CIMS Bilaspur has been built at a cost of ₹200 crore, bringing world-class healthcare closer to the people of north Chhattisgarh. Equipped with cutting-edge facilities, this hospital promises to be a lifeline for villagers and patients from remote areas, including Surguja.

Key features of the hospital include:

1. Diagnostic Powerhouses: CT scan, MRI, digital X-ray, and a color Doppler TMT machine.
2. Critical Care Capacity: 70 beds in ICU and ICCU wards.
3. Precision in Surgery: Eight modular operation theatres.
4. Specialized Clinics: Four new OPDs in neurology, neuro-surgery, pulmonology, and general medicine.
5. Support Services: Fully functional blood bank and pathology laboratory.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his pride, noting that the state government has prioritized healthcare as part of its mission to foster development in every dimension—education, employment, and public health. “This super specialty hospital is a testament to our commitment to making advanced treatment accessible even in rural pockets,” he added.

Central Research Institute of Yoga and Naturopathy

Taking a step towards preventive and holistic healthcare, PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the Central Research Institute of Yoga and Naturopathy (CRIYN) in Raipur. With an investment of ₹90 crore and spread over 10 acres, the 100-bed institute will be the first of its kind in the state.

State Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal highlighted that CRIYN will focus on treating non-communicable diseases using the age-old principles of yoga and naturopathy. “This facility will not only treat patients but also serve as a hub for research, offering certification and fellowship programs in wellness therapy and yoga science,” Jaiswal said. The institute is set to be completed within 24 months, ushering in a new wave of interest in alternative healthcare practices.

 Healthcare development package worth ₹12,850

The inauguration of these healthcare projects is part of a larger development package worth ₹12,850 crore announced by the Prime Minister. The initiative reflects the government’s focus on strengthening healthcare delivery, ensuring that both modern medicine and traditional healing practices complement each other to serve the people better.

With the introduction of CRIYN and the super specialty hospital, Chhattisgarh is poised to emerge as a healthcare hub, offering high-end medical services alongside ancient wellness practices.

 A Vision for the Future

Prime Minister Modi’s vision transcends the conventional understanding of healthcare. His focus on integrating super specialty medical care with yoga and naturopathy underscores the importance of comprehensive well-being. From critical surgeries in Bilaspur to holistic treatments in Raipur, the people of Chhattisgarh now have access to a spectrum of healthcare services—under one roof.

This landmark inauguration also symbolizes the government’s relentless efforts to bridge healthcare disparities, ensuring even the remotest areas benefit from world-class medical care. With the expansion of Ayushman Bharat, senior citizens now have enhanced financial security to seek advanced treatment.

Read this – 1 lakh Candidates Expected to Enroll in PM Internship Scheme by December

The Uttar Pradesh government released a revised fee structure on October 28, 2024, applicable to undergraduate and postgraduate medical and dental courses, including MBBS, BDS, MD/MS, and MDS. This change affects students admitted through NEET 2024 counselling across several private-sector medical colleges in the state.

A previous government order, issued on July 11, 2024, had specified that the fee structure from 2023-24 would remain valid for the current academic session 2024-25. However, some private medical and dental colleges have raised their fees, and the newly admitted students will need to pay the increased amount.

To provide financial relief, the government has clarified that students can pay the outstanding amount in one lump sum or through four equal installments during the academic session. Additionally, no late fees or interest will be imposed by the concerned colleges on these installments.

MBBS Fee Hike by 16,48,512 in UP Colleges

Among the 35 private institutions in the state, 10 have increased their fees by ₹2–3 lakh for the 2024-25 academic session. This revision impacts students pursuing undergraduate medical programs like MBBS, with noticeable fee surges across key colleges.

Rohilkhand Medical College & Hospital in Bareilly, which previously charged ₹13,00,251 per year, now requires students to pay ₹15,60,301, reflecting an increase of ₹2,60,050. Similarly, Rajshree Medical Research Institute, also in Bareilly, raised its annual fees from ₹12,28,406 to ₹14,74,087, adding ₹1,89,681 to the financial burden for new students. The Sri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences (SRMS) in Bareilly has implemented one of the most significant hikes. Its annual fees increased from ₹13,73,760 to ₹16,48,512, marking a jump of ₹2,74,752. SRMS, which offers 150 MBBS seats, is now among the highest-charging institutions in the state.

BDS fee hike by 1-1.5 lakh

In the BDS program, Sardar Patel Dental College in Lucknow has raised its fees from ₹3,42,000 to ₹4,10,400, marking an increase of ₹68,400. ITS Dental College in Ghaziabad has also implemented a fee hike, raising its fees from ₹3,84,400 to ₹4,60,800, an increase of ₹76,400.

For MDS programs, the hike is even more pronounced. Sardar Patel Dental College in Lucknow now charges ₹9,48,600 annually, up from ₹7,90,500, resulting in an increase of ₹1,58,100. Similarly, the School of Dental Sciences at Sharda University has increased its MDS fees from ₹7,69,400 to ₹9,23,280, reflecting a rise of ₹1,53,880.

MD/MS Courses Remain Unaffected

Notably, the MD/MS programs under state, management, and NRI quotas will not undergo any fee hikes this academic session. This is expected to provide some relief for postgraduate medical students.

Implications for Students

The new fee structure introduces significant financial challenges for many students pursuing MBBS and BDS degrees, with some colleges raising fees by ₹2–3 lakh per year. Families may need to explore education loans or other financial assistance options to manage the increased costs, especially for multi-year programs.

The Uttar Pradesh Government has implemented a more rigorous bond-service policy for Diplomate of National Board (DNB) candidates. According to the new policy, after finishing their courses at district hospitals, these candidates must serve the state for 10 consecutive years. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in a penalty of up to Rs 1 crore. It is worth noting that this policy is not restricted to DNB candidates; the State has clarified that doctors enrolled in PG Degree and Diploma courses will also be obligated to adhere to such bond conditions.

The recent introduction of the 10-year bond service policy was not a new idea, as plans for such a policy had already been established in 2020. the Yogi Adityanath government had determined the bond penalty to be between Rs 20 lakh to Rs 1 crore. The government made this decision as part of their efforts to address the significant shortage of specialists in Uttar Pradesh.

The government has issued an order dated February 10, 2022, which outlines the 10-year bond-service policy for both DNB and PG medical candidates. The guidelines for DNB doctors are as follows:

1. Admission to DNB courses (Post MBBS/post Diploma/MBBS Diploma) will only be granted to candidates who have completed three years of service in the department.
2. After completing the DNB course, candidates must serve continuously in the Medical Health Department for ten years. If they fail to do so, they will be required to pay a mandatory penalty of Rs 1 crore.
3. If a candidate does not get admitted after the last round of counseling for DNB courses, they will have to pay an amount of up to Rs 10 lakh to the State Government.
4. If a candidate leaves the course midway after admission, they will have to pay an amount of up to Rs 10 lakh to the State.
5. Candidates who leave the course midway will also not be allowed to be admitted to any PG degree or diploma courses for the next three years.
6. DNB doctors will receive a salary during the course. However, if they are already receiving a salary or stipend, the department will not provide any additional p

The aforementioned regulations are not exclusive to DNB students. Comparable conditions have been established for MBBS doctors who seek admission to Post MBBS and Post Diploma courses.

 For PG Medical Candidates: 

• MBBS doctors seeking admission to Post MBBS and Post Diploma courses in hospitals outside the district administration must complete 5 years of service in the department before being granted admission.
• Out of the applicants, 10 doctors who have cleared NEET will be given permission for admission. If the seats remain unfilled, the rest will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis by those who applied later.
• Doctors who take admission in PG medical courses after completing 5 years of service in the Medical Health Department will receive two years of sabbatical and one year of special leave.
• PG medical students must sign a bond committing to serve the state continuously for 10 years after completing their education. If they fail to do so, they will be subject to a penalty of up to Rs 1 crore.
• Candidates who leave the course midway will be ineligible for admission to any PG Degree or Diploma courses for the next 5 years.

Dr. Abhishek Shukla, the Secretary-General of the Association of International Doctors, expressed his support for the government’s decision and stated that it provides an excellent opportunity for government doctors to improve their knowledge levels through pursuing a PG degree, especially for those who joined the service after MBBS.

Dr. Ved Vrat Singh, the DG of Medical Health, mentioned that if candidates pursue the DNB course at a government hospital, they will receive a salary, and if they receive a stipend from a medical institution, they will receive a part of their salary.

Dr. Amit Singh, the General Secretary, and Dr. Sachin Vaish, the President of the Provincial Medical Services Association (PMSA), emphasized the responsibility of government doctors to serve people at government hospitals if they receive the opportunity to study on the basis of their services in the government sector. They further stated that if doctors are unable to fulfill their service obligations, they should pay for the privilege they received.

Dr. Sachin Vaish also highlighted the shortage of specialists in the state and the provision for reservation for in-service doctors in admission to PG medical seats based on their duration of service in rural areas. As a result, these doctors receive extra marks and get placed at the top of the merit list. Therefore, it is expected that after getting admitted to the state using these provisions, doctors will continue their rural or compulsory services for at least ten years after PG. He believes that this is an excellent initiative from the government.

­­­CMC Vellore gets ₹500 crore from Azim Premji Foundation for Making Chittoor Campus

On October 9, 2024, in Bangalore, Christian Medical College Vellore announced its intentions to establish a new medical college and hospital at its Chittoor campus. It also announced a collaboration with Azim Premji Foundation to offer healthcare and medical education focused on values, particularly for disadvantaged individuals.

422-bed teaching hospital will expand

As a result of this collaboration, the current 120-bed hospital in Chittoor will be transformed and expanded into a 422-bed teaching hospital. The Bengaluru-based Azim Premji Foundation donated ₹500 crore to Christian Medical College, Vellore, for establishing a new medical college and teaching hospital at its Chittoor campus.
Vikram Mathews, Director of CMC Vellore, stated during a press conference in Bengaluru after signing the agreement that the grant will allow ₹500 crore for CMC Vellore to expand its unique method of MBBS education, focusing on Primary-cum-Secondary Health Care, to tackle the increasing discrepancies in the healthcare field.He mentioned that we appreciate the ₹500 crore grant from Azim Premji Foundation for building new medical colleges.

₹500 crore for new medical colleges will help the country’s financial status

Dr. Mathews highlighted that the new medical college and teaching hospital in Chittoor will act as a model that can be replicated for medical education, healthcare services, research, and community engagement.This model will be created to tackle the country’s financial, societal, and resource limitations. CMC Vellore will mark its 125th anniversary in the year 2025.

He stated that the required permits for the upcoming building will be acquired in the following half-year, and the medical center is projected to commence functioning in two and a half years. He mentioned that the medical college will commence after the hospital is operational for two years and acquires the required NMC approvals. Expansion in the future will occur in stages.

Anurag Behar commended CMC Vellore for delivering excellent education and healthcare with a strong focus on social responsibility. He stated that the agreement further strengthens the strong connection between the two organizations, which started in 2020 due to the pandemic’s impact on India’s healthcare system.

Know about Christian Medical College Vellore

The Christian Medical College Vellore, located in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore, is a renowned healthcare institution with 3675 beds providing a wide range of medical specialties worldwide. CMC operates hospitals with varying levels of care in the districts of Vellore, Ranipet, and Chittoor in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Together, they serve over 3.2 million patients from various parts of the country and South Asia, offering charitable aid amounting to more than Rs 300 crore annually.

CMC Vellore has consistently maintained its third position in rankings from the Ministry of Education, GoI, in the field of education. CMC Vellore offers Medical, Nursing, and Allied Health education to over 2000 students each year, with 229 courses available at prices much lower than standard rates. Approximately 1300 students can also benefit from Distance Education programs. Every year, more than Rs 100 crore is designated for research aimed at creating healthcare solutions that cater to specific local demands. CMC’s primary focus is on reaching out to around 500,000 residents in the local community by collaborating with 170 partner hospitals to deliver essential and affordable healthcare programs to underserved rural populations across the country.

Ratan Tata Invests ₹165 Crore in Small Animal Hospital Mumbai it’s his last project

Mumbai: Ratan Tata’s last venture, a tribute to his enduring love for animals, especially dogs, is the Small Animal Hospital, Mumbai (SAHM). In Mahalaxmi, the Tata Trusts Small Animal Hospital, covering an area of 98,000 square feet, began operations in July 2024. Constructed with an investment of Rs 165 crore, it is one of the rare 24×7 animal hospitals in India.

Ratan Tata’s new Veterinary Hospital in India

The ₹165-crore, Small Animal Hospital, Mumbai (SAHM)offers comprehensive services, including ICUs and HDUs with life support for critically ill or injured animals, advanced diagnostic imaging such as CT scans, MRIs, X-rays, and ultrasound, along with specialty treatments in dermatology, dental, and ophthalmology. The hospital also boasts an in-house pathology lab, separate waiting areas for dogs and cats, and inpatient wards, ensuring pets receive world-class care.

This project is deeply personal for Ratan Tata, stemming from his own experience when he had to fly his dog to the University of Minnesota for joint replacement surgery, only to arrive too late. The joint had to be frozen in a particular position, and this incident fueled Tata’s desire to provide top-notch pet healthcare in India. The result is SAHM, a facility that brings cutting-edge veterinary care to the country.

A Dream Realized After Years in the Making
Originally announced in 2017 by the Tata Trusts, SAHM was initially planned for Kalamboli in Navi Mumbai but later shifted to Mahalaxmi due to its central location, crucial for emergencies. Despite delays due to the pandemic, the hospital began full operations after a successful trial run.

Expert Leadership and Philanthropy
Dr. Thomas Heathcote, Chief Veterinary Officer and CEO of the Advanced Veterinary Care Foundation (AVCF), oversees the hospital, which operates as a not-for-profit organization supported by the Tata Trusts. Dr. Heathcote remarked that the hospital will cater to thousands of pets, offering 24-hour care and potentially becoming one of the most impactful projects in animal healthcare.

Tata’s dedication to animal welfare is further highlighted by Shantanu Naidu, a board member of the AVCF and founder of Motopaws, a startup that creates reflective collars for stray dogs. Naidu’s role at SAHM ensures that animal welfare remains at the forefront of the hospital’s mission.

Stray Animal Care and Future Expansion
In keeping with Tata’s philanthropic vision, the hospital is building an annexe for the sterilization and treatment of stray dogs, run by the NGO Welfare of Stray Dogs. Phase 2 of the hospital’s expansion will introduce specialized surgeries like orthopedics, laparoscopy, complex medical management, physiotherapy, and advanced oncology.

A Lasting Legacy of Compassion
SAHM is not just a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital; it is a symbol of Ratan Tata’s enduring love for animals. Pets across Mumbai now have access to world-class healthcare, ensuring that their well-being is always a priority.

For pet owners seeking 24-hour emergency care or specialized treatment, the Small Animal Hospital, Mumbai offers unparalleled services, making it a true game-changer in the city’s veterinary landscape.

Mumbai: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has given the green light for 68 new additional PG medical seats in Maharashtra, providing encouraging news for aspiring medical students in the state.

Indian Express has reported that additional seats have been introduced in four current colleges for the academic year 2024-2025 and it is probable that more seats will be included as there are further approvals in progress.

Approval of 68 new PG medical seats

Recently, the approval of 68 new postgraduate (PG) medical seats in Maharashtra medical colleges has been a significant development in the field of medical education in India. Among the institutions that have benefited from this approval are several prominent medical colleges:

1. Terna Medical College, Nerul: This esteemed institution has received an additional 22 PG medical seats, enhancing its capacity to train future healthcare professionals. This increase not only bolsters the college’s role in providing quality medical education but also aims to address the growing demand for specialists in various fields of medicine.
2. Prakash Medical College, Sangli: Another noteworthy recipient is Prakash Medical College, which has been allocated 12 additional PG seats. This expansion will enable the college to diversify its programs and cater to a broader range of medical disciplines, ultimately improving healthcare services in the region.
3. Civic Medical College, Nerul: Civic Medical College has been granted 17 more PG medical seats. This increase will enhance the institution’s ability to produce qualified medical graduates and specialists, contributing to the overall healthcare workforce.
4. ESIC Medical College, Andheri: Finally, ESIC Medical College has also obtained 17 extra PG seats. This addition is expected to strengthen the college’s educational offerings and support the training of healthcare professionals who are vital for the public health sector.

Also, Terna Medical College has been allowed by NMC to have 3 seats in community medicine and obstetrics & gynecology each, 6 seats in pathology, 8 seats in anesthesiology, and 5 seats in radio-diagnosis.

Prakash Medical College has been allotted 3 seats in ophthalmology, 4 seats in radiodiagnosis, 5 seats in pediatric and 5 seats in obstetrics and gynecology.

Civic Medical College added 17 new PG medical seats

Additionally, following approval from the NMC, Anesthesiology and Pathology have obtained an increase of 3 seats each, while biochemistry, general surgery, and pediatrics departments have been granted an additional 2 seats each. 8 seats for obstetrics and gynecology, 4 for gynecology, 3 for general medicine, and 2 for orthopaedics were among the 17 new PG medical seats approved at Civic Medical College.

In response to the issue, Sudha Shenoy, a parent, expressed her approval of the increase in new PG medical seats. She informed the Indian Express that these colleges previously did not provide postgraduate programs. However, since medical PG admissions have not been announced yet, a few additional seats will be included in this list, as an approval for increasing seats in current courses will also be granted.

2,303 PG medical seats

The State obtained approval for 2,303 PG medical admission seats last year, with 1,499 being government seats and 804 being private seats. With the approval of these new PG medical seats by the NMC, total PG medical seats in Maharashtra intake now stands at 2,371, consisting of 1,533 government seats and 838 private seats.

Two scientists are recognised with this year’s Nobel Prize 2024 in medicine for their discovery of a key idea regulating the regulation of gene activity.

The organization that gives awards announced on Monday, that researchers Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun, who discovered microRNA and its function in post-transcriptional gene control, had been awarded the Nobel Prize 2024 in Physiology or Medicine.

Gary Ruvkun and Victor Ambros gets $1.1 million prize money

The Karolinska Institute Medical University in Sweden’s Nobel Assembly chooses the winners in the field of medicine, and they are awarded a prize money of 11 million Swedish crowns, or $1.1 million. Gary Ruvkun and Victor Ambros discover the regulation of gene activity which plays a pivotal role in health care system

According to an official declaration, “Every cell has the exact same set of genes and instructions because every cell has the same chromosomes.” However, certain cell types—such as nerve and muscle cells—have distinctly different properties. How do these variations come about? Gene regulation, which enables each cell to choose only the pertinent instructions, holds the key to the solution. This ensures that only the correct genes are active in each type of cell.

What is a microRNA molecule?

MicroRNA, a new type of tiny RNA molecule, was discovered to be crucial for regulating gene expression. Their revolutionary discovery unveiled brand new concept in gene regulation that was vital for multicellular organisms, including humans.

More than a thousand microRNAs are coded for by the human genome. Their surprising finding unveiled a completely new aspect of gene control. It’s becoming evident that microRNAs are crucial in the development and functioning of organisms. Gary Ruvkun and Victor Ambros said microRNA molecule is most important molecule to regulates gene activity.

Through a process known as transcription, genetic information is transferred from DNA to messenger RNA (mRNA) and subsequently to the cellular machinery responsible for producing proteins. Proteins are produced there in accordance with the genetic instructions encoded in DNA through the translation of mRNAs. The workings of these systems have been elucidated since the mid-1900s by a number of the most important scientific findings.

All the cells in our organs and tissues contain the exact same genetic information stored in their DNA. However, these different cells still show unique protein expression patterns.

How can this be accomplished? The statement suggests that the key is to have the appropriate genes turned on in every specific cell type, and the answer lies in precise control of gene activation. The document went on to say that this allows muscle cells, intestinal cells, and various nerve cells to carry out their specific roles.

Furthermore, in order for cellular activities to be adjusted to changing conditions in our bodies and surroundings, gene activity must be continuously adjusted.

Serious illnesses including cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders can result from improper gene regulation. For many years, therefore, it has been a major objective to comprehend how gene activity is regulated.

The first of the seven Nobel Prizes—possibly the most renowned awards in science, literature, and humanitarian work—is the medical prize this year. The other five will be announced in the coming days. Gary Ruvkun and Victor Ambros expressed that we highly obliged that we got this Nobel Prize 2024.