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.
