In a significant announcement today, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has revealed that the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2025 will be held in a pen and paper (OMR-based) format. This shift from the previous digital formats to a traditional paper-based exam has raised eyebrows across the education sector.

The exam will be conducted in a single day and a single shift, marking a major departure from the usual multi-day, multi-shift exams. This new format will affect millions of aspirants seeking admission to undergraduate medical and allied courses in India.

What Does This Change Mean for Aspirants?

Since 2019, the NEET UG exam has been conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the NMC, primarily in a computer-based mode. The shift to pen and paper is a notable change, with implications for both the logistics of the exam and the way students prepare.

The move to a single-day, single-shift exam format raises significant concerns, particularly regarding the logistical challenges and pressure on students. With over 20 lakh candidates expected to appear for the exam, conducting it in a single shift on a single day could lead to overcrowding and may present difficulties in managing large numbers of test-takers in exam centers across the country.

MNS Aspirants Now Required to Qualify Through NEET UG 2025

the Military Nursing Service (MNS) aspirants seeking admission to the B.Sc. Nursing courses at the Armed Forces Medical Services hospitals will now be required to qualify through the NEET UG 2025 exam. This marks the first time that MNS candidates will need to take the national entrance exam, which was traditionally used for admission to undergraduate medical courses.

Previously, the MNS had its own separate entrance examination for admission to the B.Sc. Nursing courses. However, with this new rule, NEET UG 2025 scores will be the sole criteria for selection into the four-year B.Sc. Nursing course for the Indian Armed Forces.

The NMC has cited the need for a “uniform” and “common” exam for all medical courses as a reason for this shift to the pen and paper format. While it is still unclear why this move was made after several years of successful digital examinations, the NMC and NTA are working to ensure that the transition back to a paper-based system is smooth.

NEET UG 2025: Preparation Tips and Exam Pattern

NEET UG Preparation Tips:

1.    Understand the Syllabus: Focus on the NCERT syllabus and key topics.

2.    Create a Timetable: Allocate time for each subject and stick to the schedule.

3.    Strengthen Basics: Focus on core concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

4.    Practice Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

5.    Revise Regularly: Make time for weekly and monthly revisions.

6.    Solve Previous Year Papers: Get familiar with the exam pattern by solving past papers.

7.    Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise, and sleep well.

8.    Manage Time: Practice time management during mock tests to avoid stress.

9.    Stay Positive: Stay confident and focused on your goal.

As the date for NEET UG 2025 draws closer, the sudden shift to a single-day, single-shift, pen and paper exam is leaving students, parents, and educators in suspense. While the official announcement from the NMC and NTA aims to standardize the process for all medical and allied course aspirants, it remains to be seen how this change will play out on the ground.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued an important notification for candidates preparing for NEET UG 2025. As part of its efforts to enhance security, streamline the registration process, and ensure the integrity of the examination, NTA has announced the integration of the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) ID with the NEET UG 2025 application process. This integration will require candidates to update their Aadhaar credentials as per the details provided on their 10th-grade mark sheet or passing certificate.

The NTA’s decision to include APAAR ID along with Aadhaar-based authentication is aimed at simplifying the registration process and reducing any chances of discrepancies. The NTA strongly encourages candidates to update their Aadhaar details ahead of the upcoming registration to avoid any delays.

Important Steps for NEET UG 2025 Candidates

In the official notice, the NTA emphasized the importance of updating Aadhaar credentials to match the details on the 10th-grade certificate. Candidates are urged to ensure that their Aadhaar is linked to a valid mobile number for OTP-based verification during both the registration process and the examination.

The notice stated: “Candidates are advised to update their credentials in Aadhaar, preferably as per their 10th Marksheet/Passing Certificate. Also, ensure your Aadhaar is linked with a valid mobile number for OTP-based authentication.”

Why Aadhaar is Crucial for NEET UG 2025 Registration

1.    Simplified Application Process: Aadhaar integration facilitates the auto-population of details during the registration process, reducing manual errors and expediting the application submission.

2.    Efficient Examination Process: By linking Aadhaar, the NTA aims to streamline the examination process, minimizing potential delays and complications for candidates.

3.    Faster Attendance Verification: Aadhaar-based identification will allow for swift and accurate verification of candidates on the exam day, ensuring smooth attendance tracking.

4.    Enhanced Security and Welfare: Aadhaar not only helps with identity verification but also incorporates features like facial recognition to enhance security, ensuring that each candidate is uniquely identified throughout the examination cycle.

NTA’s Guidelines for Aadhaar Update

•    Update Aadhaar Information: Ensure that your Aadhaar details, particularly your name and date of birth, match the information on your 10th-grade mark sheet. This update can be made at any Aadhaar Enrollment or Update Center.

•    Link Aadhaar with Mobile Number: Ensure your Aadhaar is linked to a valid mobile number for OTP-based authentication, which will be essential during registration and the examination process.

•    Leverage Aadhaar-based Face Recognition: NTA is introducing facial recognition for quicker and more secure identity verification. This biometric feature will help streamline candidate entry into exam halls and strengthen the examination’s security.

What’s Next?

The registration process for NEET UG 2025 will begin shortly. Candidates are advised to keep a close eye on the official NTA NEET website (neet.nta.nic.in) for further announcements. The updated guidelines for registration and additional instructions will be provided, ensuring a smooth and secure process for all applicants.

As NEET UG 2025 draws closer, candidates are urged to ensure that their Aadhaar credentials are updated well in advance. By doing so, they will not only enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the registration process but also contribute to a seamless examination experience.

Stay prepared, stay informed, and make sure to complete all required updates ahead of the NEET UG 2025 registration deadline.

The eagerly awaited Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024 process has officially kicked off with the release of the provisional final merit list by the Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences (KNRUHS). Candidates who have qualified through the NEET PG exam can now check their names on the list and proceed with the next steps in the counselling process. This marks an important milestone for PG medical aspirants in Telangana, who are hoping to secure a seat in the state’s medical colleges.

For candidates who have been included in the merit list, the next phase involves choice filling for the first round of seat allotment. In this article, we will walk you through the essential steps, important documents, and other key information about the Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024 process.

Release of Final Merit List for Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024

The provisional final merit list for Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024 has been made available on the official KNRUHS website. Candidates can now access the list, download it, and confirm their eligibility to participate in the counselling process. It’s crucial for candidates to verify their details, as only those listed in the final merit list will be considered for seat allotment.

Important Note: Candidates who have not secured a place in the merit list will not be eligible for the counselling process, and they will need to explore alternative options for their PG medical education.

• Download the merit list: Candidates can visit the official website of KNRUHS at knruhs.telangana.gov.in to view and download the merit list.

 Eligibility for Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024

To participate in Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024, candidates must meet the following essential eligibility criteria:

• Minimum NEET PG Marks: Candidates must have secured the minimum qualifying marks in NEET PG or NEET MDS to be eligible for counselling.
• Rank-Based Selection: The merit list is primarily based on the NEET PG ranks and other eligibility criteria set by the university.
• Local/Non-local Status: The seat allotment will also depend on the local status of candidates as per the reservation policy of the Telangana government.
• Compulsory Rotatory Internship (CRRI): Only those candidates who have completed their internship as per the required timeline will be eligible to participate.

 Choice Filling and First Round of Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024

With the release of the merit list, the next step in the Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024 process is choice filling. Candidates must log into the KNRUHS portal and select their preferred colleges and courses.

• Choice Filling: Candidates are required to fill in their choices of medical colleges and courses based on their rank and preferences. It is important to be strategic when selecting options, as the availability of seats will depend on the ranks and reservation criteria.
• Seat Allotment: Once the choice-filling process concludes, the seat allotment for round 1 will be conducted. The allocation will consider factors such as the candidate’s NEET PG rank, available seats, and the reservation policy.
• Important Notice: Candidates who fail to participate in the first round of counselling will not be eligible for subsequent rounds. Hence, it is imperative to participate in the first round, even if the candidate’s preferred course or college is not available.

Required Documents for Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024

Candidates must ensure that they have the following documents ready and uploaded during the counselling process:

• Class 12 Pass Certificate
• Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, etc.)
• NEET PG Scorecard and Admit Card
• Secondary School Certificate (SSC) or Date of Birth Certificate
• MBBS Qualifying Certificate and Mark Sheets for all professional years
• Compulsory Rotatory Residential Internship (CRRI) Certificate
• Medical Council Registration Certificate (MCI/SMC)
• MBBS Study Certificate for all professional years
• Caste Certificate (if applicable)
• Physically Challenged (PH) Certificate (if applicable)
• Pass Certificates from Class 6 to Class 12 and MBBS Mark Sheets for candidates from Christian Medical College (CMC), Dichpalli

Seat Allotment and Reservation Criteria

The seat allotment for Telangana NEET PG Counselling 2024 is done based on several factors:

• NEET PG Rank
• Choice of Course and College
• Available Seats in each medical institution
• Reservation Criteria as per Telangana State Government norms (e.g., SC/ST/OBC, EWS, PH categories)

 Student Protests Over Delays in Telangana NEET PG 2024 Counselling

Earlier this year, the delay in the release of the merit list and commencement of the counselling process caused significant unrest among PG medical aspirants. Protests were organized by various medical associations, including the Telangana Junior Doctors Association (TJUDA) and the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Telangana chapter.

The main concern raised by students was that the delayed counselling process might affect their academic timelines and career opportunities. Both organizations urged the Telangana state government and KNRUHS to expedite the process and ensure that students could proceed with their education without unnecessary delays.

In response to these concerns, the university has taken steps to streamline the process, and with the release of the merit list and initiation of the choice filling, things are now moving forward.

49,772 PG Medical Seats Available Across 81 Specialties in 586 Institutes for 2024-25

The National Medical Commission (NMC), India’s apex medical education regulatory body, has released the details of postgraduate (PG) medical seats available across the country for the academic year 2024-2025.

According to the data shared, a total of 49,772 PG medical seats in 81 specialities are distributed across 586 medical institutes nationwide.

The information, issued by the Secretary of NMC, Dr. B. Srinivas, was addressed to the heads of medical colleges, including Deans and Principals.

It provides a detailed seat matrix as of November 18, 2024, and a copy of the communication was also shared with relevant authorities across states and union territories, as well as key officials within the NMC.

State-Wise Distribution of PG Medical Seats

The state-wise data reveals Karnataka leading with the highest number of seats (6,419), followed by Maharashtra (5,948), Tamil Nadu (4,649), and Uttar Pradesh (4,381). The detailed distribution is as follows:

Specialty-Wise PG Medical Seats

The 49,772 PG medical seats span 81 specialties, catering to a diverse range of medical fields. Key distributions include:

MD/MS Programs that contain Maximum Seats

Other Specialities

This expansive distribution of 49,772 PG medical seats reflects India’s robust infrastructure for advanced medical education.

With opportunities spread across states and specialties, the 2024-25 academic year promises to empower thousands of medical graduates to pursue diverse career pathways in healthcare.

The detailed seat matrix offers aspiring candidates the resources they need to make informed decisions about their future specializations and institutions.

NEET PG Counselling is in full swing, and for many MBBS graduates, the next big decision is choosing the right specialization for their MD/MS program. With the wide array of PG medical courses available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, some specializations have emerged as the most in-demand, thanks to evolving healthcare needs, technological advancements, and societal changes.

According to the latest Bodmas Medical Report, these are the most demanding MD/MS branches in India for PG medical aspirants in 2024.

1. MD in Radiology

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Radiology is one of the most sought-after branches in modern medicine due to the increasing reliance on imaging technologies for diagnosis. With the growing prevalence of diseases requiring imaging for accurate diagnosis, such as cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases, the demand for radiologists is rising. Additionally, the advent of advanced imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, and PET scans has made this specialization critical in the healthcare system.

Earning Potential:

Radiologists are among the highest-paid specialists in India, with salaries ranging from 50 Lakh – 2 Crore per annum. Private practice, particularly in urban areas, offers significantly higher earnings. Moreover, with the increasing number of diagnostic centers, radiologists have access to lucrative opportunities in both private and public sectors.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of M.D. (RADIO-DIAGNOSIS)

2. MD in Dermatology 

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Dermatology is a highly popular specialty due to its wide scope, dealing with conditions affecting the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes. With rising concerns over skin diseases, cosmetic treatments, and conditions like acne, pigmentation disorders, and hair loss, the demand for dermatologists has soared. Furthermore, the growing trend of people seeking aesthetic treatments such as Botox, chemical peels, and laser therapies adds to its popularity.

Earning Potential:

Dermatologists enjoy high earning potential, particularly if they specialize in cosmetic dermatology. In India, dermatologists can earn anywhere between ₹10-₹30 lakhs annually. Those in private practice, especially in metro cities, can earn significantly more, particularly with high-demand cosmetic treatments.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of Dermatology (Derma)

3. MD in General Medicine (GM)

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

General Medicine is a core branch that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of adult diseases. It’s in high demand because nearly every patient visiting a healthcare facility requires consultation with a general physician, making this branch fundamental in all aspects of healthcare. The rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, contributes to the increasing demand for specialists in this field.

Earning Potential:

The earning potential for General Medicine specialists varies significantly based on experience and location, ranging from ₹10-₹20 lakhs annually. Physicians with specialized skills in fields such as cardiology, pulmonology, or endocrinology can command even higher salaries. Private practice is especially lucrative in urban areas.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of General Medicine

4. MD in Paediatrics

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Paediatrics focuses on the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. With the increasing awareness of child health issues, better healthcare facilities, and the growing number of pediatric hospitals, the demand for pediatricians is substantial. Children’s health concerns—ranging from vaccination schedules to chronic conditions—make this branch indispensable in healthcare systems.

Earning Potential:

Pediatricians in India typically earn ₹7-₹15 lakhs annually, with those working in private practice or running their own clinics often earning significantly more. Highly specialized pediatricians, such as neonatologists, can command even higher salaries.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of MD (Paediatrics)

5. MD in Psychiatry

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Psychiatry is gaining importance due to the growing awareness of mental health issues and the rising number of mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. The pandemic has also highlighted the need for mental health professionals. With changing societal norms and greater acceptance of mental health care, psychiatry is a highly relevant and increasingly essential branch.

Earning Potential:

Psychiatrists earn between ₹10-₹25 lakhs annually, depending on experience and specialization. Those with expertise in child psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, or psychotherapy can command higher fees. Private practice, especially in urban centers, can offer even higher earnings.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of M.D. (PSYCHIATRY)

6. MS in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBG)

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Obstetrics and Gynaecology is one of the most sought-after fields, as it focuses on women’s health, including childbirth, fertility, and reproductive health. With increasing awareness about women’s health and maternal care, OBG specialists are in high demand. Furthermore, the expanding population and the growing need for skilled obstetricians and gynaecologists for procedures like C-sections and high-risk deliveries have made this branch highly rewarding.

Earning Potential:

OBG specialists have a high earning potential, especially those with skills in high-risk obstetrics and fertility treatments. Their annual income typically ranges from ₹12-₹30 lakhs. Private practice, particularly in maternity and IVF clinics, offers lucrative earning opportunities.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of OBG

7. MS in General Surgery (GS)

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

General Surgery remains a cornerstone of medical practice. Surgeons in this field perform a wide range of operations, from minor procedures to complex surgeries. With advancements in laparoscopic and robotic surgeries, general surgeons are now able to perform minimally invasive procedures, increasing their efficiency and reach. The constant need for surgeries in hospitals and clinics makes this branch highly demanding.

Earning Potential:

General surgeons earn between ₹12-₹25 lakhs annually, depending on their expertise and location. Surgeons with additional subspecialties, like oncological surgery, vascular surgery, or paediatric surgery, can command even higher fees.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of M.S. (GENERAL SURGERY)

8. MS in Orthopaedics

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Orthopaedics is the branch dealing with musculoskeletal issues, including bone fractures, joint replacements, and spinal disorders. With the increasing number of accidents, sports injuries, and the aging population requiring joint replacements, orthopaedics is a high-demand field. Moreover, advances in robotic-assisted surgeries and minimally invasive techniques have made this branch more attractive to medical professionals.

Earning Potential:

Orthopaedic surgeons earn between ₹12-₹30 lakhs annually, depending on experience and skill level. Those specializing in joint replacements, sports injuries, or spinal surgery have higher earning potential, especially in private practice.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of M.S. (ORTHOPAEDICS)

9. MS in ENT

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

ENT specialists diagnose and treat conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. With increasing cases of respiratory diseases, hearing loss, and sinus issues, ENT specialists are in high demand. The development of advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive surgical techniques has further increased the importance of this branch.

Earning Potential:

ENT specialists can earn ₹8-₹20 lakhs per annum. Specialization in areas like cochlear implants or pediatric ENT can increase earnings. Private clinics or hospitals offer higher remuneration in urban areas.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of M.S. (E.N.T.)

10. MS in Ophthalmology

Duration – 3 yrs

Why It’s in Demand:

Ophthalmology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. With the increasing number of elderly patients and rising cases of conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors (e.g., myopia and hyperopia), ophthalmology remains a high-demand field. Advances in laser eye surgeries, such as LASIK, have made this field even more popular.

Earning Potential:

Ophthalmologists earn between ₹10-₹20 lakhs annually. Surgeons who specialize in cataract surgeries, refractive surgeries, or paediatric ophthalmology have the potential for higher earnings, particularly in private practice.

AIQ NEET PG Closing Cutoff of M.S. (OPHTHALMOLOGY)

Provisional Allotment Result: The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has officially released the Round 1 Provisional Allotment Result for NEET PG Counselling 2024. Candidates who participated in the counselling process can now check their provisional allotments on the MCC’s official website, www.mcc.nic.in. This is a crucial step in the NEET PG admission process, and candidates are advised to check their results promptly.

Additionally, the reporting and joining period for candidates allotted seats in Round 1 has been scheduled from November 21 to November 27, 2024. All candidates who have been provisionally allotted seats must report to their respective colleges and complete the joining formalities during this period.

Reporting and Joining Period for Round 1 Allotment

• Reporting Period: Candidates who have been provisionally allotted a seat in Round 1 must report to their respective allotted medical colleges or institutes between November 21, 2024, and November 27, 2024.
• Joining the College: Candidates must join their allotted institution by completing all the required formalities, including submitting necessary documents and paying fees, during this period.

How to Check the NEET PG Counselling 2024 Round 1 Provisional Allotment Result

To ensure that you can check the Provisional Allotment Result easily, follow these simple steps:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Visit the Official Website
   Open your web browser and go to the official website of the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC): www.mcc.nic.in.
2. Click on the ‘PG Medical Counselling’ Link
   On the homepage, locate and click on the link labelled “PG Medical Counselling”. This section provides information about NEET PG counselling and allotment results.
3. Select the ‘Provisional Result for Round 1 MD MS PG 2024’ Link
4. Search for Your Name and Roll Number
5. Download and Save the Provisional Result
   After confirming your allotment details, download the PDF and save it for future reference. It’s important to keep this document handy for further procedures.

Information About the Provisional Allotment

• Indicative in Nature: The provisional allotment result is indicative and subject to change. It is not the final allotment, and candidates cannot claim the seat based on this provisional result.
• Discrepancy Reporting: If you notice any discrepancies in the result, you must report them immediately. The deadline to raise objections or discrepancies is 12:00 Noon on November 20, 2024. Candidates can send an email to [email protected] with their issue.
• Final Result Declaration: After the discrepancy reporting deadline, the provisional result will be treated as final. No further changes will be made after this point.
• Allotment Letter: Candidates must wait for the final result before approaching the allotted college. Additionally, candidates can only report to their respective colleges after downloading the official allotment letter from the MCC website.

In a crucial update for NEET UG 2024 candidates, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has decided to conduct a Special Stray Vacancy Round for vacant seats in medical colleges across the country.

This step comes after the completion of the Stray Vacancy Round of UG counselling 2024, which left several seats unfilled due to non-joining or non-reporting by candidates.

The MCC’s initiative aims to ensure that these precious medical seats do not go to waste, thereby giving eligible candidates one last opportunity to secure admission to medical courses for the academic year 2024.

Vacant Seats and Eligibility for NEET UG Special Stray Vacancy Round

According to the MCC, some seats remain vacant after the completion of the Stray Vacancy Round of NEET UG 2024 counselling. These vacant seats are being made available for fresh allotment through the Special Stray Vacancy Round, which will be conducted in an online mode.

The details of the available vacant seats are listed on the official MCC website (www.mcc.nic.in).

Who Can Participate?

Candidates who are already registered with the MCC portal and have completed the registration and payment of fees are eligible to participate in this special round. However, it is important to note that:

• No fresh registration will be allowed for this Special Stray Vacancy Round.
• Only candidates who have not been allotted any seat in the previous rounds of NEET UG 2024 counselling (whether for All India Quota, State Quota, or Deemed Universities) are eligible.
• Candidates who had joined a seat in previous rounds of counselling and those who have been allotted a seat but did not report are ineligible for this round.

Security Deposit for Participation

Candidates will be required to pay a refundable security deposit to participate in the Special Stray Vacancy Round. The amount depends on the type of seat the candidate is choosing:

• For Government Medical Colleges (AIQ seats): Candidates need to pay a refundable security deposit of ₹50,000.
• For Deemed University Seats: Candidates who wish to exercise choices for Deemed Universities must pay a higher refundable security deposit of ₹3,00,000.

Important Guidelines for Candidates

• Choice Filling: All candidates participating in this round will be required to do fresh choice filling for seat allotment. Any choices submitted in previous rounds will be considered null and void.
• Forfeiture of Security Deposit: Candidates who are allotted a seat in the Special Stray Vacancy Round but do not join the seat within the stipulated time will have their security deposit forfeited. Additionally, such candidates will be barred from appearing for NEET UG 2025.
• Joining the Allotted Seat: Candidates who are allotted a seat must report to the respective allotted institute with their original documents for verification and join the seat within the timeline specified in the schedule.
• Debarred from State Counselling: Once candidates are allotted a seat in the Special Stray Vacancy Round, their names will be shared with the state counselling authorities. These candidates will be debarred from taking admission in the Special Stray Vacancy Round of state-level counselling.

Eligibility Criteria 

To participate in the Special Stray Vacancy Round, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Eligible Candidates:

1. Candidates who have completed registration on the MCC portal and paid the fees for the counselling process.
2. Candidates who do not hold any seat from previous rounds of NEET UG counselling, whether under All India Quota (AIQ), State Quota, or Deemed University.

Ineligible Candidates:

1. Candidates who have not completed registration or failed to pay the required fees.
2. Candidates who have already been allotted a seat in any previous round of AIQ, State Quota, or Deemed University and have joined the seat.
3. Candidates who were allotted a seat by MCC in Round 3 or the Stray Vacancy Round earlier but did not join the allotted seat.

Jharkhand NEET PG 2024 Counselling: The Jharkhand Combined Entrance Competitive Examination Board (JCECEB) has officially released the notice for the Jharkhand NEET PG 2024 Counselling for Round 1, outlining the schedule for admissions to postgraduate medical courses (MD/MS, Diploma & DNB) under the State Quota. The admissions will be based on the NEET-PG 2024 result. If you’re an aspiring medical professional seeking to pursue MD/MS or other postgraduate courses in government medical colleges of Jharkhand, here’s everything you need to know about the Round 1 counselling process.

 Jharkhand NEET PG 2024 Counselling Round 1 Time Schedule

The first round of counselling will follow a precise schedule, with each step being crucial for the successful allotment of seats. Below is the time schedule for the online counselling process:

 Online Registration and Choice Filling

Starting from 20th November 2024, eligible candidates can register online and begin filling their choices for seat allotment. The registration process will close on 25th November 2024, so it’s crucial for candidates to complete their choice filling within this window. After registration, applicants will be able to select their preferred colleges and courses.

Seat Allotment and Provisional Admission

Once the choice filling process is completed, the provisional seat allotment letter will be issued on 27th November 2024. This letter will inform the candidates about the college and course they have been allotted based on their NEET-PG rank and preferences. Candidates must take the allotted seat by completing the document verification and admission process at the concerned institute, which will take place between 28th November and 4th December 2024.

Counselling Fees and Security Deposit

To participate in the counselling process, candidates must pay both the counselling fee and security deposit. These payments can be made online through credit/debit cards or net banking.

Counselling Fee

The counselling fee varies based on the category of the candidate:

 Security Deposit

Candidates must also pay a security deposit based on the type of institution and category. The deposit is refundable under certain conditions, but it may be forfeited if the candidate does not take admission after being allotted a seat.

 Important Notes About Security Deposit

• Non-refundable security deposit: If a candidate does not take admission after being allotted a seat in the second round or subsequent rounds of counselling, the security deposit will be forfeited.
• Incorrect Information: If a candidate provides false information during the registration process or fails to present the necessary original documents during admission, the security deposit will not be refunded.
• Refund Process: If a candidate has been allotted a seat but does not take admission, the security deposit will be refunded, provided the candidate does not participate in any further rounds of counselling and no seat is allotted after any stage of counselling.

The Jharkhand NEET PG 2024 Counselling for Round 1 is a crucial opportunity for medical graduates to secure seats in the state’s postgraduate medical programs.

With the release of the State Merit List on 19th November 2024, followed by the online registration starting on 20th November 2024, candidates need to stay updated and complete all required steps on time.

The counselling fee and security deposit, while necessary for participation, ensure that the process remains organized and fair for all involved.

In an exciting development for students aspiring to pursue Homoeopathy as a career, the Ministry of Ayush has announced a 15% reduction in the minimum qualifying percentile for NEET-UG 2024 (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate) for admission to BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) programs. This change will make more students eligible to apply for Homoeopathy courses, broadening access to medical education in the field of alternative medicine.

Alongside this reduction, the final admission deadline for both Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) courses in Homoeopathy has been extended to 20th December 2024, allowing students more time to complete their admissions. Let’s dive into what this change means, how it affects candidates, and the details about the new NEET cutoff for BHMS admissions.

What Has Changed with the NEET Percentile for BHMS?

Previously, students needed to meet a certain minimum percentile in NEET-UG 2024 to qualify for BHMS admissions. These percentiles (15% reduction in BHMS) were set by the Ministry of Ayush, and candidates who scored below the required cutoff were not eligible for admission. The new policy, however, reduces the qualifying percentile by 15 percentage points across all categories.

Here’s what this means in terms of NEET scores:

Old NEET Cutoff Scores for BHMS 2024

• General and EWS Categories: 162
• SC/ST/OBC Categories: 127
• General PWD Category: 45% of the maximum marks

New NEET Cutoff Scores for BHMS 2024 After 15% Reduction

• General and EWS Categories: 111
• SC/ST/OBC Categories: 76
• General PWD Category: Reduced by 15 percentile

This reduction significantly lowers the cutoff scores for candidates in all categories. In the case of General and EWS categories, the qualifying score has dropped from 162 to 111. For SC, ST, and OBC candidates, the score drops from 127 to 76. The adjustment allows many students who had slightly missed the cutoff in the past to now qualify for BHMS programs.

How Will This Benefit Aspiring Students?

The reduction in the minimum qualifying percentile means that more students will now be able to apply for BHMS courses. Those who previously did not meet the cutoff by a narrow margin—perhaps because of exam stress, a challenging paper, or other external factors—can now pursue their dreams of becoming homeopathic doctors.

For example, under the old system, General category candidates needed to score 162 marks to qualify. After the 15% reduction in BHMS, the new cutoff is 111 marks, a decrease of 51 marks. This change increases access to Homoeopathy education for a larger number of aspirants.