MARD demands increase in PG seats in medicine

MARD-Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors is reported to have approached the heath minister JP Nadda to increase the PG seats in medicine. Now that NEET is the single gateway to medical admissions, the appeal has been made to increase the PG seats offered in government colleges.

The association has stated that this will help in addressing the shortage of doctors in the state. Besides addressing this situation in government hospitals, it will also put an end to corrupt practices for medical admissions in private and other universities.

The appeal of MARD also finds evident support in a decision by the SC on August 8, 2015. In its verdict the apex court had implied that PG seats in a particular medical colleges has already gained recognition of MCI, then it may not require to seek approval on additional seats in the same speciality. This, in turn, can be approved by the central government itself.

Dr Amit Lomte, vice president of Central MARD in his statement implied that in view of SC’s verdict, it is a great opportunity to have more specialists in India. NEET being the common pattern can benefit the situation. Private universities conduct their own exams and charge separate fees-which in most cases is high. With this practice likely to go with introduction of NEET, it will benefit many more students.

Dr Sagar Mundada, president of Central MARD, said to FPJ that, “If we compare, the PG seats in private hospitals are high as against the government hospitals which faces the issue of shortage of doctors. Despite of bearing huge load of patients and surgeries, the PG seats are limited in government hospitals and have not been increased in the past years"

When asked, Dr Kishore Taori, member of MCI, said to FPJ that, “The Central MARD’s demand is fine but we need to look at all the positives and negatives and ensure that the state doesn’t suffer because of this decision. NEET will definitely bring in transparency and there will be a single source for all the exams but we need to wait for the court’s verdict. Also, the reason for few seats in government medical colleges is lack of infrastructure and poor educational facilities.”