MCI bats for common national medical entrance test

Earlier in 2013, the Supreme Court had rejected the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). However, according to a recent media report, the Medical Council of India (MCI) is now making efforts to introduce a common national medical entrance test.

Apparently, MCI has already approached the Central government on the matter asking for its review. A review petition by the council has also been filed.

MCI president Dr Jayashree P Mehta has further implied on the matter that this is crucial step forward to ensure uniformity in admissions and prevent malpractices. MCI has in principal given its nod and sent it forward to Government of India to arrive at a final decision. This new system is expected to ensure reservation of seats as per norms and the syllabus will be common throughout the country.

As quoted by

Deccan Herald, Mehta said the MCI was making efforts to revise, revamp and upgrade the existing 1997 regulations in Graduate Medical Education by incorporating many changes.

These include a two-month foundation course during which students would be oriented to the national health scenario, medical ethics and professional development and communication skills. The MCI also wants early clinical exposure of students from the first year onwards which would be integrated with basic laboratory sciences.