ESIC Bond Policy: Aspiring doctors applying for PG medical (MD/MS) or Super speciality (DM) courses at ESIC medical institutes nationwide must complete a mandatory 2-year service at ESIC institutes or government institutes under the ESI Scheme.

Although the bond duration remains consistent for MBBS graduates applying for MD, MS admissions and PG medical graduates applying for DM courses at ESIC institutions, the bond penalty differs at Rs 10 lakh and Rs 15 lakh respectively. The students have the option to cover part of the payment for services provided.

This effect was confirmed by a recent notification posted on the official website of the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) on November 25th, 2024.

 As per the notice released on 28-7-2020, there was a modification in the Bond conditions for post-graduate (MD/MS) / super-specialty (DM) trainees of ESIC Medical Education Institutions.

The notification makes reference to:

Following approval by the Competent Authority, I am instructed to refer to the subject mentioned above and communicate the updated Bond conditions for post-graduate (MD/MS) / super-specialty (DM) trainees of ESIC Medical Education Institutions.

A) Post-graduate Courses (MD/MS)

B) Super-specialty Courses (DM)

The advantage of decreasing both the Bond period and Bond amount will apply to current PG (MD/MS) & super-specialty trainees (DM), new PG (MD/MS/DM) graduates, and PG (MD/MS/DM) graduates already fulfilling a bond at ESIC.

If pass-outs who are already serving under a bond have worked for more than 2 years, they can be released from their bond obligations without having to pay ESIC for the remaining bond period.

New graduates (this year) must provide a Bank Guarantee for the full Bond amount (as updated) at the beginning if they choose to work for the Corporation. If they choose not to serve, they can pay a different Bond amount and be excused.

The current PG trainee (MD/MS/DM) must sign a new Bond with updated terms and provide a Bank Guarantee, if necessary, within three months of receiving these instructions. The notice stated that post-graduate trainees must submit a revised Bond with Bank Guarantee within 3 months, or else their original Bond conditions will still apply.

The Corporation will keep the student/trainee’s original documents until the Bank Guarantee is submitted. Updated Bond conditions would not affect situations in which cases have been concluded, meaning individuals have been released after paying the Bond amount.”

Bangladesh Government: The Directorate General of Medical Education under the Medical Education & Family Welfare division of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Bangladesh, has opened the doors for foreign students seeking admission to Government Medical Colleges and Dental Colleges/Units for the academic year 2024-2025. This initiative aims to foster international cooperation in medical education while maintaining the highest standards of learning and practice.

A Total of 221 Seats for Foreign Students

This year, a total of 221 seats have been allocated to foreign students under the following categories:

• SAARC Countries: 117 seats.
• Non-SAARC Countries: 99 seats.
• Reserved under Bangladesh Government Scholarship Program: 5 seats.

The allocations reflect Bangladesh’s commitment to inclusivity and regional collaboration in higher education, particularly in the medical field.

Country-Wise Distribution for SAARC Candidates

The 117 seats under the SAARC quota are allocated as follows:

• India: 22 MBBS, 2 BDS
• Pakistan: 21 MBBS, 2 BDS
• Nepal: 19 MBBS, 3 BDS
• Sri Lanka: 13 MBBS, 2 BDS
• Bhutan: 20 MBBS, 2 BDS
• Maldives: 6 MBBS, 1 BDS
• Afghanistan: 3 MBBS, 1 BDS

Allocation for Non-SAARC Countries

For candidates from non-SAARC countries, 99 seats are available, distributed as follows:

• Myanmar: 5 MBBS, 2 BDS
• Palestine: 18 MBBS, 3 BDS
• All Other Countries: 49 MBBS, 22 BDS

Note: SAARC candidates cannot apply for the seats reserved for non-SAARC countries.

Scholarship Opportunities

Bangladesh has also reserved five seats under its government scholarship program. This provides an exceptional opportunity for deserving students to pursue quality medical education with financial assistance.

Why Study Medicine in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh’s medical colleges have earned a reputation for their high standards of education and affordable fees. With globally recognized curricula, experienced faculty, and well-equipped facilities, these institutions attract students from all over the world. Additionally, students benefit from the cultural and geographical proximity, particularly those from SAARC countries.

NEET PG 2024: The ongoing legal case surrounding the NEET PG 2024 has been postponed once again, with the next hearing now scheduled for December 3rd, 2024.

The case was not taken up for arguments as planned today because the counsel representing the petitioners was unavailable. The petitioners requested a short adjournment, which was granted by the court.

The petitioners have asked the court to prioritize the 2024 case (Ishika Jain vs National Board of Examinations, or NBE) over earlier cases, which focused on issues related to previous years’ NEET PG answer keys.

The 2024 case primarily deals with concerns about the normalization process in the exam, which adjusts scores based on varying levels of exam difficulty across different test sessions.

This issue has been a point of contention for many candidates, and its resolution will be key for the upcoming exam.

The case has now been posted for hearing on December 3rd, where the court is expected to hear arguments related to the normalization process and other issues affecting NEET PG 2024.

This delay means that candidates preparing for the NEET PG 2024 are still waiting for clarity on key issues, such as the exam pattern and any potential changes in scoring.

The upcoming hearing is critical, as it may provide more details on how the exam will be conducted and how the challenges to the normalization process will be addressed.

Fake NRI Documents: In a major development in Madhya Pradesh, the Director of Medical Education (DME) has cancelled the admissions of 97 ineligible candidates who had used fake NRI documents to secure spots in the NRI quota for medical seats.

This action was taken after thorough investigations revealed that these students had submitted fraudulent NRI documents to gain admission to seven medical colleges in the state, including prestigious institutions like Peoples Medical College, Chirayu Medical College, and LN Medical College.

Background of the MP Fake NRI Document Scandal

The MP fake NRI document scam came to light when officials from the Department of Medical Education discovered discrepancies in the NRI status documents of several admitted students.

These candidates had falsely claimed to be Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) or children of NRIs, a category that offers reserved seats in medical colleges in India.

The NRI quota is an attractive option because of the limited number of seats and higher fees, making it a target for unethical practices.

Upon review by seven departmental committees, the fraudulent nature of the documents was confirmed. As a result, the DME cancelled the admissions of 97 students across seven medical colleges in Madhya Pradesh, with immediate effect.

Director of Medical Education

Following the investigation, the DME submitted a detailed report to the Madhya Pradesh High Court, with a hearing scheduled for Wednesday. In the meantime, medical colleges have been instructed to refund the fees paid by the affected students within a week. The DME has also communicated the cancellation of the admissions to the Medical Council of India (MCI) and Madhya Pradesh Medical University (MPMU) to ensure proper documentation of these cases.

This move emphasizes the DME’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the admission process and ensuring that only eligible candidates benefit from the NRI quota. The cancellation also aims to prevent any further misuse of the system, which could otherwise lead to the violation of academic standards.

Verification of NRI Documents

The Madhya Pradesh case serves as an important reminder for educational institutions about the critical need for robust verification of NRI documents during the admission process.

Colleges must implement stricter checks to prevent fraudulent admissions through fake NRI documents, which can undermine the integrity of the educational system.

MIT need-based Scholarship was $12,93,8⁠02

JHU-AIF partnership: In a ground breaking initiative, Johns Hopkins University (JHU), a globally renowned institution based in the United States, has partnered with the Bengaluru-based Ajit Isaac Foundation (AIF) to enhance palliative care services in India. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing the pressing healthcare gaps in end-of-life care for terminally ill patients in underserved regions.

As part of this collaboration, AIF will establish a state-of-the-art 63-bed Palliative Care Centre in Tumkur, a town near Bengaluru, by early next year. This facility will not only provide compassionate care to patients but also serve as the cornerstone for the JHU-AIF partnership. Together, they will design and implement comprehensive palliative care training programmes for healthcare professionals and community caregivers, offered in both online and offline formats. The initiative will include mentorship support to empower staff and ensure the delivery of high-quality care.

JHU-AIF partnership for Palliative Care

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between JHU and AIF is aimed at bridging the vast disparity in palliative care accessibility across India. According to AIF, an estimated 8-10 million Indians require palliative care annually, yet only 1-2% receive it, compared to the global average of 14%. This gap is further exacerbated by the concentration of existing services in urban areas, leaving rural regions with limited or no access.

By expanding palliative care to underserved areas like Tumkur, this initiative seeks to address the inequities in healthcare delivery, ensuring that terminally ill patients receive care that is both compassionate and dignified.

Empowering Through Knowledge and Innovation

JHU’s involvement extends beyond the establishment of the centre. The university will play a pivotal role in developing research fellowships and designing a cutting-edge curriculum for training programmes. These efforts will be complemented by workshops and conferences, jointly hosted by JHU and AIF, to showcase advancements in palliative care and promote the adoption of global best practices.

The collaboration also prioritizes capacity building, focusing on the need for skilled personnel, infrastructure, and resources. Ajit Isaac, Co-founder of AIF, highlighted the importance of providing end-of-life care with dignity and compassion, emphasizing that the initiative seeks to address the acute shortage of skilled caregivers and infrastructure in this field.

Bridging the Healthcare Divide

Speaking at the MoU signing, JHU’s President reiterated the institution’s commitment to using evidence-based approaches to improve the quality of life for terminally ill patients. “With colleagues in India, we aim to bridge the healthcare divide and ensure compassionate care for all, regardless of geography or circumstances,” the President stated.

AIF further noted that the initiative represents a step forward in tackling India’s healthcare access equity issue. By bringing palliative care services to rural areas, it seeks to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families, offering much-needed physical, emotional, and psychological support.

A Model for Global Collaboration

This partnership between JHU and AIF underscores the potential of international collaborations in transforming healthcare systems in resource-limited settings. The Tumkur centre is poised to become a model of excellence, not only providing critical care to patients but also driving research, education, and policy advocacy in palliative care.

With its ambitious vision and evidence-based approach, this initiative is set to create a lasting impact, inspiring similar efforts across the globe to ensure equitable access to end-of-life care for all.

NEET UG: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET-UG), one of the most significant entrance exams in India for medical college admissions, is set to undergo a transformative shift.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has recently indicated that the exam is likely moving toward a NEET UG Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, a change that could streamline the examination process and enhance its security.

The potential transition to a computer-based format is part of the government’s efforts to address longstanding concerns about the security of the NEET exam.

The move follows the establishment of the Radhakrishnan Committee, which was set up to investigate allegations of paper leaks and irregularities in NEET exam procedures.

The committee’s key recommendation involves a phased shift from traditional paper-based exams to online testing, aiming to mitigate the security risks that come with physical paper handling.

The committee has proposed several strategies, including a hybrid model, where the NEET question papers would be digitally transmitted to exam centers while students would continue to write their answers on paper.

This model aims to reduce the physical handling of question papers, cutting down vulnerabilities in the printing, storage, and transportation stages of the exam process.

Moving Towards a Computer-Based Test

In an exclusive interview with The Times of India (TOI), Pradhan emphasized that the transition to a computer-based test is being discussed in consultation with multiple stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and the National Testing Agency (NTA), which is responsible for conducting NEET exams.

A newly formed third-party monitoring group, led by former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief K. Radhakrishnan, has also been tasked with overseeing the process to ensure transparency and accountability.

Pradhan confirmed that deliberations with the Ministry of Health and other bodies were ongoing, with the objective of moving towards a computer-based test (CBT). He explained, “We have two ways of conducting the test – paper-based and computer-based. Based on consultation and deliberations with the ministry, the committee, and NTA, we are in all likelihood moving towards CBT.”

This statement marks a significant step forward in the ongoing reform of the NEET exam, especially given the challenges the paper-based format has faced in terms of security and logistics.

Addressing Security Concerns with Technology

One of the primary motivations behind the shift to a computer-based test is to enhance the security of the exam process. Paper-based exams, which require printing, storing, and transporting large quantities of sensitive materials, have always posed significant risks in terms of paper leaks and malpractice.

By transitioning to a NEET UG computer-based test (CBT), these risks can be minimized, as all aspects of the exam – from question paper delivery to answer recording – would be handled digitally.

The Radhakrishnan Committee’s proposed hybrid model also aims to address security concerns while maintaining the integrity of the examination.

This model involves digital transmission of question papers to examination centers, while students write their answers on paper.

This hybrid approach reduces the physical handling of the question paper, eliminating vulnerabilities associated with printing and transportation.

Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

To ensure the success of this transition, the government has established a monitoring group that will continuously advise and oversee the activities of the NTA.

The group, led by K. Radhakrishnan, will function as an independent third-party watchdog to ensure that the entire exam process is transparent, fair, and efficient.

This oversight is crucial, given the high stakes involved in the NEET exam, where millions of students from across the country vie for limited spots in medical colleges.

A smooth, secure, and transparent examination process is essential to maintaining the credibility of the system.

The Role of Stakeholders in the Transition

The Ministry of Health plays a significant role in the NEET exam process, as it is the primary client for the test, responsible for regulating medical admissions in India.

As part of the ongoing discussions, the Ministry is being consulted to provide its input on the transition to a computer-based test. This collaborative approach ensures that all relevant stakeholders are involved in shaping the future of NEET-UG.

NEET PG 2024  SC hearing  postponed again

The NEET PG 2024 Supreme Court hearing has been postponed for the fourth time, causing disappointment among students.

Due to transparency, the normalisation process, and the release of the NEET PG answer key and raw marks, the hearing has been rescheduled for November 26.

The NEET PG 2024 hearing has been delayed once more by the Supreme Court of India. The originally set hearing on November 20, 2024, has been rescheduled to November 26, 2024.

The event focusing on NEET PG 2024 transparency, answer key release, and raw marks has been postponed multiple times, infuriating students and raising concerns about the judicial system.

Nonetheless, students are unhappy yet optimistic that the Supreme Court will consider their request and come to a fair decision.

A group of NEET PG 2024 applicants presented a plea to the Apex Court, asking for the SC’s involvement in the transparency of NEET PG and requesting the NBE to provide the exam’s answer key, raw marks, and information on the normalization method used for result calculation.

Nevertheless, despite multiple requests from the candidates, the board has not accepted them, as reported by TOI.

NEET PG 2024 SC Hearing: Sequence of Events

19 NEET PG candidates submitted a petition for transparency in NEET PG 2024 on September 7, 2024, due to concerns over last-minute changes in the exam pattern.

Since the examination was conducted in two sessions, the regularisation process was used to prepare the results.

Nonetheless, the petitioners also brought up issues regarding the transparency of the result processing.
The initial SC hearing for NEET PG 2024 was set for September 20, 2024, but it was rescheduled for October 4, 2024.

The hearing was rescheduled for October 25, 2024, due to the lack of a government representative. The hearing was postponed two more times, to November 12 and November 20, 2024.

 Applications are now open for admission to Rashtriya Military School. Apply now

The prestigious Rashtriya Military Schools (RMS) have opened admissions for the academic session 2024-25. Known for their quality education and strong emphasis on discipline and leadership, these schools are an ideal platform for students aspiring to join the armed forces. The admission process for RMS is based on the Common Entrance Test (CET), which serves as the gateway for students seeking admission to Classes 6 and 9.

Important Admission Dates

Students who meet the eligibility criteria and are interested in applying must submit their applications online through the official website of RMS: www.rashtriyamilitaryschools.edu.in.

Total 5 Rashtriya Military Schools In India

Rashtriya Military Schools were established to provide quality education to the children of Indian defence personnel. Initially, these schools were set up as the Royal Indian Military Schools under British rule. However, in 1952, they were restructured to admit children of both defence personnel and civilians. Today, these schools follow the CBSE curriculum and are integral members of the Indian Public Schools Conference (IPSC).

There are five Rashtriya Military Schools in India:

1. Rashtriya Military School, Chail
2. Rashtriya Military School, Bangalore
3. Rashtriya Military School, Dholpur
4. Rashtriya Military School, Belgaum
5. Rashtriya Military School, Ajmer

Who Can Apply?

Admission to RMS is open to:

1. Children of serving and retired Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs)/Other Ranks (OR) of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
2. Children of defence officers (serving or retired)
3. Children of civilians (non-defence personnel)
4. Children of martyrs (deceased personnel who died in action)

Eligibility Criteria For Admission

The following eligibility guidelines are set for students applying for Classes 6 and 9:

Class 6 Admission:

• Children between 10 and 12 years of age as of March 31, 2024 (born between April 1, 2012, and March 31, 2014).
• Must have passed Class 5 before the date of admission.

Class 9 Admission:

• Boys between 13 and 15 years of age as of March 31, 2024 (born between April 1, 2009, and March 31, 2011).
• Must have passed Class 8 before the date of admission.

Application Process

The admission process for RMS involves the following key stages:

1. Online Application: Candidates must fill out the application form online before November 30, 2024. The application form is available on the official RMS website.
2. Common Entrance Test (CET): The CET is the first step in the admission process. The exam is held at multiple centers and is based on the OMR (Optical Mark Reader) system, conducted offline.
   • Class 6: The exam will cover English, Mathematics, Intelligence Test, and General Knowledge.
   • Class 9: The exam consists of two papers covering subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Hindi.
3. Interview: After successfully passing the written exam, candidates will be called for an interview. The interview marks are added to the written exam scores to prepare the merit list.
4. Medical Examination: Only candidates who pass the written exam and interview are called for a medical examination. Admission is granted only to those found medically fit.

Examination Pattern

The CET exam for each class follows a specific pattern:

Class 6 Examination:

• Total Marks: 200
• Subjects: English (50 marks), Mathematics (50 marks), Intelligence Test (50 marks), General Knowledge (50 marks)
• Qualifying Marks:
  • English: 35%
  • Other subjects: 40% each
• Interview: 20 marks
• Important Note: Candidates must qualify in English, although the marks in English are not counted towards the final merit list.

Class 9 Examination:

• Total Marks: 200 (100 marks per paper)
• Paper 1: English, Hindi, Social Science
• Paper 2: Mathematics, Science
• Qualifying Marks: 50% in each paper
• Interview: 20 marks

Reserved Seats and Quotas

Rashtriya Military Schools follow a reservation system to ensure equitable access to education:

• 70% seats are reserved for children of serving and retired JCOs/ORs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• 30% seats are reserved for children of defence officers and civilians.

Further reservations include OBC (27%), SC (15%), and ST (7.5%) candidates.

50 seats are reserved for the children of martyrs (deceased defence personnel), with a cap of 15 seats per school.

Fee Structure of Rashtriya Military Schools

The fee structure for RMS varies according to the category of the student. Below is a breakdown of the annual fees:

Additionally, there are provisions for scholarships based on merit and financial need.

Families with an income of less than ₹3,00,000 per year may be eligible for full fee waivers, while those with incomes between ₹3,00,000 and ₹4,50,000 may receive a 50% fee concession.

Guidelines to Remember

• Online Only: Applications are accepted only through the online mode. No offline applications will be entertained.
• One Application Per Candidate: Each candidate can submit only one application. Multiple applications will lead to disqualification.
• No Refund of Application Fee: Once the application is submitted, the fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
• Carefully Fill the Application: Once submitted, the application form cannot be modified. Ensure all details are correct before submission.

CAT Exam is on Sunday 24 November, Get Your Admit Card Ready

The CAT 2024 exam is scheduled for Sunday, November 24, 2024, and it’s time to gear up for this crucial test. Ensure you have your admit card ready, as it is mandatory to carry it to the examination center.

Admit cards will be available for download from November 6, 2024. Verify all details, such as your name, registration number, test center, and reporting time, well in advance. Keep it printed and stored securely to avoid last-minute hassles.

The Common Admission Test (CAT) 2025 is one of the most anticipated exams for aspiring management students in India.

Scheduled for Sunday, November 24, 2024, CAT serves as the primary gateway to prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and other top B-schools across the country.

The exam will maintain its three-slot format: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening, allowing candidates to select or be assigned a slot that fits their schedule.

With slots planned in quick succession, there will be minimal downtime between one session concluding and the next beginning.

IIM Calcutta’s Role

This year, IIM Calcutta takes the lead in organizing CAT after a gap of five years, having last conducted the exam in 2018. Known for its academic rigor and innovation, IIM Calcutta’s involvement adds to the exam’s prestige.

In 2023, CAT witnessed an overwhelming 3.30 lakh registrations, with 2.88 lakh candidates appearing for the test.

This turnout underscored CAT’s popularity and significance. For 2024, participation is expected to rise even further, reflecting the growing demand for management education in India.

CAT 2024 is not just an entrance test but a stepping stone to transformative career opportunities. A strong performance can secure admission to flagship MBA programs at the IIMs and other elite institutions like FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, and MDI Gurgaon.

 CAT 2024: Key Dates and Timeline

Stay updated with all important milestones for CAT 2024: