New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services, the Delhi government has extended the tenure of both regular and ad-hoc Junior Residents (JRs) and Senior Residents (SRs) in all government hospitals. The decision, announced on Thursday, comes from the Department of Health and Family Welfare, which has authorized hospitals to hire JRs and SRs on an ad-hoc basis as per the existing guidelines.

This extension will remain in effect until the Centralised Committee completes the recruitment process, preventing any disruption in healthcare services across the capital’s hospitals.

Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj’s Statement

Delhi’s Health Minister, Saurabh Bharadwaj, took to social media to confirm this critical development. Earlier this week, he had directed the health secretary to extend the tenure of resident doctors for three months or until new hires join the workforce.

He said, “There have been worries expressed on the possible termination of senior and young resident physicians in Delhi government hospitals, as this may cause a disruption in vital medical services. To prevent this, I have directed the extension of their tenure until new staff members are onboarded.”

Impact on Healthcare Services in Delhi

The move is expected to prevent staffing shortages in government hospitals, ensuring patients continue to receive essential medical care. By proactively extending the tenures, the Delhi government has averted a potential healthcare crisis.

This decision also provides temporary relief to both the resident doctors and the hospital administration as they await the finalization of new appointments.

As the Centralised Committee continues the recruitment process, the extended tenure for JRs and SRs will help maintain the steady functioning of Delhi’s government hospitals. Stay tuned for further updates on the recruitment process and how it impacts healthcare services in the capital.

ALSO READ – RMC Registrar Suspended Over Fake Doctor Registrations

Jaipur, Rajasthan – In a shocking turn of events, the Rajasthan Medical Council (RMC) has been rocked by a major scandal involving the registration of doctors using fake documents. The issue came to light following an investigation, leading to the immediate suspension of three key officials, including the RMC Registrar.

The Controversy Unfolds

On Tuesday, officials announced the suspension of Dr. Rajesh Sharma, the Registrar of the Rajasthan Medical Council, alongside Akhilesh Mathur, Assistant Administrative Officer, and Farhan, Junior Assistant. This drastic action followed an interim report submitted by a five-member committee formed by the State Health Minister, Gajendra Singh Khinvsar. The report revealed procedural lapses and irregularities in the registration process, which led to the fraudulent approval of fake doctor registrations.

New Leadership and Immediate Action

As part of the immediate changes, Dr. Girdhar Gopal Goyal, Chief Specialist (Surgery) at Sawai Mansingh Hospital, has taken over as the acting Registrar of Rajasthan Medical Council (RMC). He will oversee the investigation and ensure that the registration process is reformed to prevent such breaches in the future.

State Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khinvsar expressed his deep concerns over the issue, stating, “The issuance of fake registrations is a grave matter. The government will take strict action against those responsible and will ensure that such negligence is not repeated.”

The Five-Member Committee

The probe into the scandal was launched after the State Health Ministry took cognizance of multiple complaints regarding the registration of unqualified doctors. The investigation committee includes:

• Iqbal Khan, Commissioner of Medical Education
• Mahipal Singh, Project Director of PCPNDT
• Dr. Ravi Prakash Sharma, Additional Director (Gazetted)
• Veena Gupta, Financial Advisor
• Dr. Ajit Singh, Additional Superintendent of SMS Medical College

This panel was tasked with identifying irregularities and proposing immediate solutions to restore integrity to the registration process.

Government’s Zero-Tolerance Policy on Corruption

Minister Khinvsar reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, emphasizing that the guilty will face severe consequences. “We will not spare anyone involved in such malpractice. The fake registration of doctors is a serious offense, and those responsible will be brought to justice,” he asserted.

The final report of the investigation is expected to be submitted soon, which will shed more light on the scale of the fraud and those involved.

Advisory to Hospitals and Nursing Homes

The scandal has resurfaced concerns about unqualified doctors practicing in the state. In July 2024, the Rajasthan Medical Council issued an advisory to all hospitals and nursing homes, urging them to rigorously verify the degrees and credentials of doctors before hiring them. This advisory followed reports of hospitals unknowingly employing underqualified or fake doctors, potentially endangering patient safety.

The RMC also reminded doctors working at these medical establishments of their responsibility to ensure  patients receive care only from certified professionals. Failure to comply, the advisory warned, could result in punitive actions under the law.

The Larger Impact on Healthcare in Rajasthan

This scandal has not only tarnished the reputation of the Rajasthan Medical Council but also raised serious questions about the integrity of healthcare providers across the state. The use of fake documents to register doctors jeopardizes the safety of patients and erodes public trust in the healthcare system.

The state government, in response, is expected to overhaul the medical registration process, ensuring stricter background checks and verification methods to prevent future instances of fraud. Hospitals and clinics across Rajasthan are being urged to tighten their internal procedures to safeguard against unqualified practitioners entering the healthcare system.

Top MBBS in Canada for Indian Students

Are you an aspiring medical student from India looking to study MBBS abroad? Canada stands out as an exceptional choice, offering high-quality education, advanced healthcare facilities, and a multicultural environment. In this article, we will explore some of the best medical universities in Canada, their tuition fees, and what makes them unique.

Entrance required for study in Canada

To study in Canada, students must provide IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores to demonstrate English language proficiency. Additionally, depending on the selected course and university, scores from various other exams, such as GRE, GMAT, or SAT, may also be required. There are specific entrance exams for certain programs as well.

1. University of British Columbia (UBC)

Located in Vancouver, the University of British Columbia is renowned for its research programs and innovative teaching methods. It provides an extensive medical education with a focus on community health and global medicine.

• Tuition Fees: CAD 22,505 (approximately 13,72,805 INR)
• Highlights: UBC offers a diverse learning environment and is known for its strong emphasis on research and practical experience in healthcare settings.

2. Queen’s University

Situated in Kingston, Queen’s University has a prestigious medical program known for its commitment to community health and patient-centered care. The university fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging students to develop essential clinical skills.

• Tuition Fees: CAD 6,900 (approximately 429,900 INR)
• Highlights: The small class sizes promote individualized attention from faculty, enhancing the learning experience.

3. University of Toronto (U of T)

The University of Toronto is one of the top-ranked universities globally and offers an outstanding medical program. U of T is known for its research contributions and innovation in medical education, making it a prime destination for international students.

• Tuition Fees: CAD 91,770 (approximately 55,97,970 INR)
• Highlights: The university provides students access to cutting-edge facilities and numerous research opportunities, alongside a diverse and vibrant campus life.

4. McGill University

Located in Montreal, McGill University is famous for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive medical curriculum. With a focus on research and clinical practice, McGill prepares students for a successful career in medicine.

• Tuition Fees: CAD 90,000 (approximately 54,90,000 INR)
• Highlights: McGill boasts a diverse student body and offers numerous extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

5. McMaster University

McMaster University in Hamilton is known for its innovative approach to medical education, particularly its problem-based learning methodology. The program emphasizes critical thinking and teamwork, preparing students for the complexities of modern medicine.

• Tuition Fees: CAD 96,000 (approximately 58,56,000 INR)
• Highlights: McMaster offers extensive clinical placements, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience throughout their studies.

6. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa is unique as it is the largest bilingual university in the world, offering medical programs in both English and French. It focuses on community service and public health, preparing students to meet the diverse needs of the population.

• Tuition Fees: CAD 44,000 (approximately 26,84,000 INR)
• Highlights: Ottawa provides students with opportunities to engage in research and community initiatives, enhancing their educational experience.

Conclusion

Studying medicine in Canada is a significant investment in your future, offering high-quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and excellent career prospects. Each of the universities listed above has its unique strengths, from research opportunities to innovative teaching methodologies, making them ideal choices for Indian students.

Frequently Asked Questions :-

1. What are the eligibility criteria for MBBS in Canada?

Ans. A bachelor’s degree, strong GPA, specific science courses, and a good MCAT score.

2. What is the cost of studying MBBS in Canada?

Ans. Tuition ranges from CAD 6,900 to CAD 96,000 per year.

3. Can Indian students work while studying?

Ans. Yes, up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during breaks.

4. Is the MCAT required for admission?

Ans. Yes, most medical schools require the MCAT.

5. What post-graduation work options are available?

Ans. Graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit for up to three years.

Maharashtra government will establish 8 New Government Medical Colleges with 100 seats each and 403 Crore for infrastructure development.

Maharashtra will soon welcome 8 new Government Medical Colleges (GMCs), each offering 100 seats, for the academic year 2024-25. The approval comes from the central government’s Health and Family Welfare department.

Maharashtra’s GMCs will rise to 4,850

The central government has issued separate directives for the National Medical Council (NMC) to provide Letters of Permission (LoPs) for GMCs located in Gadchiroli, Amravati, Washim, Jalna, Buldana, Ambernath, Bhandara, and Hingoli districts. This addition of 800 seats will supplement the 100 seats approved earlier this August—50 each in Mumbai and Nashik. With these new approvals, the total number of seats available in Maharashtra’s GMCs will rise to 4,850.

The recent approvals followed a second appeal from the state’s Medical Education department in September. The orders issued on September 30 noted that the central government considered the submissions made by the state, leading to the directive for the NMC to issue LoPs.

Earlier this year, Maharashtra applied to establish ten new GMCs across different districts, each intended to accommodate 100 students. However, only two of these applications received approval for a total of 100 seats, while the remaining eight were rejected due to deficiencies identified during inspections by the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB). Following these rejections, the state government filed an appeal.

New directives from the Government of India highlighted that the colleges have submitted sufficient documentation justifying their compliance with the NMC’s minimum standards. However, it was noted that should inspections reveal any deficiencies in faculty or infrastructure, the NMC may revoke the permissions granted.

403 Crore for infrastructure development

Currently, Maharashtra has GMCs in 35 districts, providing a total of 4,850 seats. “With so many medical aspirants studying abroad, this expansion creates significant opportunities for students within the state,” stated Hasan Mushrif, Maharashtra’s Medical Education Minister.

Each of the new GMCs will receive funding of Rs 403 crore for infrastructure development. Although none of the colleges fully meet the requirement of 88 teaching faculty for every 100 students yet, officials assured that faculty support for the first-year courses is in place, and recruitment is ongoing.

While the decision has been positively received by many medical aspirants and their families, concerns remain about missed opportunities for admission, as the admissions process is already underway. Parent Brijesh Sutaria commented, “The fee structure at private medical colleges is prohibitively high. The addition of 800 government seats is a relief, but the government must ensure fair access to these seats for all applicants.”

In the meantime, the Maharashtra CET Cell has announced a delay in the selection list for the second round of ongoing medical admissions due to a technical error.

JP Nadda Encourage NMC to Outspread 75,000 Medical Seats by 2029

New Delhi:The Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, JP Nadda, requested the National Medical Commission to increase the number of 75,000medical seats by 2029.Nadda delivered this statement during the 4th-anniversary event of the National Medical Commission today.

Shri JP Nadda, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, spoke on tuesday on the  4th year celebration of the National Medical Commission. During the event, Shri JP Nadda praised NMC for its growth in adding 25,000 UG and PG seats in the past four years, marking its fourth anniversary, as stated in a press release from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Additionally, he pointed out that NMC reached its goal of 100,000 MBBS seats across the country one year ahead of schedule. He also motivated NMC to reach the goal established by Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, to increase 75,000 medical seats in the next 5 years to fulfill the increasing need for future medical professionals, according to the statement.

Using AI method to evaluate medical colleges

“Commending NMC for implementing new technological methods like using AI to evaluate medical colleges and implementing Aadhar-enabled biometric attendance (AEBAS) for faculty, JP Nadda urged NMC to keep working on enhancing the standard of medical education in the nation.

he pointed out the launch of the National Medical Register (NMR), describing it as “an active database for all allopathic doctors that has garnered approximately 20,000 applications so far”.

The Health Minister of the Union stated that current initiatives in public health service, notably the Family Adoption Program, will equip MBBS students to be more compassionate and proficient healthcare professionals. He also highlighted the change in perspective towards preventive healthcare and wellness.

Aim to reach 75,000 medical seats by 2029

During the event, the Union Health Minister unveiled a book containing 89 essays titled ‘Making of a Family Physician: Reaching the Roots’, a book of 67 collages titled ‘Art of Making of a Family Physician: Reaching the Roots’, and a report on medical camps conducted by colleges as part of the Family Adoption Program through village outreach. According to the statement, 2nd year MBBS students from 496 colleges in 28 states/Union Territories conducted the survey in 2022.

The Union Minister also honored the students who produced the top essays and collages. He ended his speech by commending the new students who enrolled in MBBS programs across the nation. JP Nadda Speech to encourage NMC (National Medical Commission) to enlarge the 75,000 medical seats in next 5 years will plays a significant role to improve healthcare system of India.

HekaliZhimomi, an Additional Secretary from the Union Health Ministry; Dr BN Gangadhar, who serves as the Chairperson of NMC; and Dr Aruna Vanikar and Dr Vijay Oza, Presidents of the NMC’s Undergraduate and Postgraduate Medical Education Boards respectively, along with other senior officials from the Union Health Ministry, attended the event and agreed on expanding 75,000 medical seats by 2029.

Adani Gyan Jyoti Scholarship 2024-25

Recently, Adani group of industries bringing good news for medical students. Adani Group has introduced Adani Gyan Jyoti Scholarship 2024-25 for medical students.

The Adani Gyan Jyoti Scholarship 2024-25 is a transformative initiative by the Adani Group, dedicated to empowering aspiring medical professionals from economically weaker backgrounds. This scholarship specifically targets first-year students who excel academically and aim to pursue MBBS programs.

Designed for talented individuals from Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, this scholarship offers selected students the opportunity to receive an annual financial support of up to INR 3,50,000. With this assistance, financial constraints will no longer stand in the way of your dream to make a difference in the medical field.

Adani Group

The Adani Group is an Indian conglomerate that operates in a variety of sectors, including energy, infrastructure, logistics, and agribusinessand real estate. Founded by Gautam Adani in 1988, the group is headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. 

Adani Transmission oversees a vast system of power transmission lines, while Adani Gas concentrates on distributing natural gas. The group’s expansion includes agribusiness via Adani Wilmar and real estate development through Adani Realty.

Furthermore, the Adani Group has expanded its areas of operation to encompass mining, as well as aerospace and defence industries. The group is crucial in advancing India’s infrastructure, guaranteeing energy security, and encouraging overall economic growth and nation-building by effectively balancing growth with ethical practices.

These are some requirements to apply for Adani Gyan Jyoti Scholarship 2024-25

Qualification

• Residents from Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh are permitted to study in any state in India.
• First-year MBBS students exclusively qualify to submit their applications.
• Candidates need to have successfully completed their Class 12 board exams in either 2023 or 2024 and secured admission based on their performance in national/state examinations.
• Candidates need to have achieved a NEET All India rank in the top 15,000.
• Applicants must not have a total annual family income exceeding INR 4,50,000 from any sources.
• Offsprings of workers at Adani Group and Buddy4Study are not qualified.

Note: Students in the BDS program are not eligible.

Benefits:Annual tuition fees up to INR 3,50,000 per year

Documents

• Government-issued identity proof (Aadhaar card/voter ID card/driving license/PAN card)
• Current year college/institution enrollment proof (fee receipt/admission letter/institution identity card/bonafide certificate, etc.)
• Family income proof or salary slips (for the last 3 months) or IT Return Form
• Class 12-mark sheet
• Entrance rank certificate
• Counselling letter for seat allotment
• Family income certificate
• Bonafide certificate issued by the college
• Fee structure for the course issued by the college
• Parent’s or guardian’s declaration
• Previous year mark sheet
• Bank account details of the applicant
• Recent photograph

What is the process for applying?

• Press the button label ‘Apply Now’ located underneath.
• Sign in to Buddy4Study using your designated ID and you will be directed to the ‘Application Form Page’. If you are not already registered, sign up on Buddy4Study using your Email/Mobile number/Google account.
• The next step is to be redirected to the application page for the ‘Adani Gyan Jyoti Scholarship 2024-25’
• To initiate the application process, click the ‘Start Application’ button.
• Complete the necessary information in the digital application form.
• Submit pertinent files.
• Agree to the ‘Terms and Conditions’ and then select ‘Preview’.
• Click on the ‘Submit’ button to finish the application process once all the details provided by the applicant are accurately displayed on the preview screen.

Delhi Government introduced New One-Year Service Bond Medical Graduates

New Delhi: The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has introduced a one-year service bond for all undergraduate and postgraduate medical students. This initiative, set to commence in the upcoming academic session, requires graduates to serve in medical institutions under the Government of National Capital Territory (GNCT) of Delhi following their studies, including the internship period.

The service bond mandates that both undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) medical students must work in designated hospitals for a minimum of one year after graduation. This is particularly critical in a city like Delhi, which faces immense healthcare challenges. By ensuring that newly minted doctors contribute to the local healthcare system, the bond aims to enhance service availability and quality.

To participate in this program, students must provide a bond of Rs.15 lakhs for undergraduate courses and Rs.20 lakhs for postgraduate courses, which includes super-specialty programs. This bond acts as a financial assurance, ensuring commitment to the mandatory service period. If a student opts out before completing the year, this amount will be forfeited.

Placement and Responsibilities

Upon completion of their studies, undergraduate students will be positioned as Junior Residents (JRs), while postgraduate students will serve as Senior Residents (SRs) in various hospitals across Delhi, including society hospitals. They will receive a stipend equivalent to that of current JRs and SRs, with additional increments for those in super-specialty training.

The system is designed to efficiently utilize the talents of fresh graduates by placing them in existing vacancies. This not only helps fill gaps in medical staffing but also ensures that new doctors gain valuable practical experience in a real-world setting.

Assessing and Creating Opportunities

To manage this transition effectively, a committee chaired by the Dean of Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) will evaluate the current staffing needs. This committee will assess whether additional positions for JRs and SRs need to be created based on the demand in various hospitals within the GNCT. Should the need arise, these positions will be established in the medical colleges where the graduates have trained, allowing for a seamless flow of qualified personnel into the healthcare system.

For students already in the pipeline, the government is providing a unique opportunity. Before the bond takes effect, current students will have the chance to voluntarily fill vacant posts as Junior Residents or Senior Residents. This move aims to facilitate a smoother transition for graduates eager to begin their careers while addressing immediate staffing needs in Delhi’s healthcare facilities.

SC: The NRI quota criteria in Punjab is a “fraud” on medical education, allowing “backdoor entries.”

NEW DELHI: September 24, New Delhi (Representative) On Tuesday, the Supreme Court denied three petitions that challenged an order from the Punjab and Haryana High Court that nullified a Punjab government notification that changed the requirements for admissions to medical colleges under the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) quota. The revised terms, according to a bench consisting of Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud, Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, are nothing more than “fraud,” as they degrade the standard of the nation’s educational system.

15% NRI business quota is money spinning fraud

The Supreme Court was considering appeals that challenged the high court’s decision on September 10 to cancel the notification from the Punjab government on August 20. The announcement broadened the 15% NRI reservation to encompass distant relatives like uncles, aunts, grandparents, and cousins of NRIs for admissions in medical colleges under the same quota. The bench instructed to examine the terms ‘nearest relatives’ and ‘wards’ of NRIs. Even a distant third cousin can qualify as a nearest relative. What was the government referring to when mentioning the ward of a Non-Resident Indian? Everyone has the potential to be considered a dependent of an NRI, as long as there is a sworn statement from the individual living overseas.

 General student with 630 out of 700 marks may not secure a seat

Abhimanyu Bhandari, an advocate, noted that a general category student scoring 630 out of 700 marks may not secure a seat, whereas an NRI ward with just 200 marks could be admitted. Finding an NRI in Punjab is not a challenging task. Describing the government’s action as a “total deception” and “a profit-making scheme”, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, leading a three-judge panel, stated, “We need to put an end to this NRI quota system immediately.” He went on to say, “This is pure deception and this is the impact on our education system!” Judges are aware of the situation they are handling.

The Chief Justice of India stated that the Punjab and Haryana High Court bench, headed by CJ Sheel Nagu, made the right decision in overturning the August 20 amendment to the medical admission prospectus. They instructed the state to proceed with admissions as per the original prospectus, which allowed only children of NRIs to be admitted under the NRI quota.

In Punjab, Shadan Farasat, an additional advocate general, claimed that the Aam Aadmi Party government had utilized the same procedure as Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, and the Union government for NRI quota admissions. The Chief Justice of India stated, “We should stop this entire deception regarding NRI quota seats.” This new interpretation of the NRI reservation is simply a deceitful act against the medical education system. Following the deadline for submitting application forms, the Punjab government adjusts the eligibility requirements for NRI quota seats. Candidates in the general category, who have three times more marks than an NRI candidate, will be at a disadvantage. The court must not support this fraudulent patent.

GOOD News For Medical Aspirants, Central Government Has Approved 60 New Medical Colleges

New Delhi: Central government has been approved 60 new medical colleges all over the country, this is the good news to the medical aspirants in India.  According to this permission from the centre the total number of medical colleges in the country has enlarge from 706 medical colleges into 766 medical colleges in 2024-2025 academic year. 

 In accordance with PIB release, Shri J P Nadda the minister of Union Health Minister recently informed this rise of 8.07% in all medical colleges from 706 to 766 in 2024-2025 academic year. 

The union health minister emphasised the significant progress made in the last ten years in medical education in India. In 2024–2025, there will be 766 medical colleges, more than twice as many as there were 387 medical colleges in 2013–14. There are 343 private institutions and 423 public colleges included in this. This significant growth demonstrates the government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s healthcare system by expanding access to medical education. 

Chances to increase MBBS, UG, PG Seats

In addition, the Ministry data showed that the number of MBBS seats increased from 1,08,940 in 2023-24 to 1,15,812 in 2024-25a rise of 6.30%. The number of MBBS seats climbed from 51,348 in 2013-14 to 11,5812 in 2024-25, a rise of 64,464 (or 125%).

The number of PG medical seats has increased in addition to the UG medical seats. The number of PG seats increased from 69,024 in 2023-2024 to 73,111 in 2024-25, a 5.92% increase. The number of PG seats rose by 39,460 (or 127%) in the last ten years, from 31,185 seats in 2013-14 to 73,111 seats in 2024–25.

The Times of India was informed by a senior official that “the number of MBBS seats in India has increased 6%, from 1,08,940 in 2023-24 to 1,15,812 in 2024-25.” This information was confirmed.
The official noted that the number of PG medical seats had increased by 6%, from 69,024 in 2023–2024 to 73,111 in 2024–2025. “Over the last ten years, the number of PG seats increased by 39,460 (i.e. 127%) from 2013–14 (31,185 seats)” to 2024-25 (73,111 seats).

For the academic year 2024–2025, the National Medical Commission recently approved the addition of 44 new medical institutions and increased the number of MBBS seats in 19 already-existing medical colleges. Among these 44 new medical colleges, 24 have been given permission by the NMC to offer 50 MBBS seats, 11 have been given permission to offer 100 MBBS seats, and 9 have been given permission to offer 150 MBBS seats each.

NMC CBME syllabus: According to Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) Curriculum 2024 guidelines

NMC has included that all MBBS students should have to learn on ‘Suicide Risk Assessment’ as a certifiable skill. According to the updated CBME 2024 guidelines, which were recently published, suicide risk assessment is now part of the MBBS curriculum and must be completed by students. For the purpose of developing this skill, role play and bedside instruction are among the recommended teaching-learning methods.

“Suicide Risk Assessment’ as a certifiable skill in 706 MBBS Colleges

The academic branch of the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine and the Indian Teachers of Psychiatry (IToP) have supported the inclusion of this ability in undergraduate medical education.
Speaking on the subject, Professor and Head of the Psychiatry Department at JSS Medical College in Mysuru and Chief Coordinator of IToP Kishor M. told The Hindu that all MBBS students in more than 706 medical colleges in India will now be required to receive suicide risk assessment training due to the Apex Medical Commission’s approval.

The Commission’s clearance was given just days before the Lancet released research on the financial impact of suicide deaths in the nation, according to the most recent media source from The Hindu. India leads the globe in the number of suicide fatalities, with an estimated $16.7 billion in national economic costs associated with suicide, with Karnataka leading the way.

Training for 40 hours, 6 weeks of training

In this context, Dr Kishor emphasised how, upon finishing their bachelor degrees, generations of doctors in the nation have little to no expertise in psychiatry. “Though part of medicine, psychiatry was paradoxically not part of the evaluation in any phase of MBBS till now,” he stated.

He went on to point out that in the CBME 2024 curriculum, the NMC has considered suicide risk assessment as a valid skill and is therefore now accredited, he said: NMC’s Certificate of Medical Education (CBME) He has been training for 40 hours, 6 weeks of training. Clinical awareness in psychiatry is an important part of MBBS training.According to CBME 2024 guidelines, suicide risk assessment and diagnosis and management of depression are integrated skills. medical students, every doctor must train in psychology to be licensed as a doctor.

In Mysuru, a mobile app was launched during Covid by a group of volunteers comprising psychologists and technologists to self-evaluate their mental health, daily reported. This program showed encouraging results at Bangalore Medical College and JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (JSSAHER).The program called Self Assessment for Life (SAFL) was used not only by the faculty of Bangalore Medical College to train its medical students, but also by the JSS School of Nursing to train its teachers and his students, said Dr. Kishore. He added that this program can be used not only to evaluate yourself, but also to evaluate a friend or family member. It is designed to ensure user privacy