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June 4, 2025 | New Delhi — In a significant development for medical education and mental health care in India, the Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) has urged authorities to allow psychiatry postgraduates to pursue Doctorate of Medicine (DM) super-specialization in neurology. This move, IPS leaders argue, would foster much-needed neuropsychiatric integration and improve patient outcomes for a range of complex brain and mental health disorders.
Currently, DM Neurology seats in India are open only to those with a postgraduate degree in general medicine or pediatrics. The IPS contends that this restriction overlooks the deep overlap between neurological and psychiatric conditions, such as epilepsy, dementia, and movement disorders, which often require expertise from both fields.
Dr. Vinay Kumar, President of the IPS, emphasized, “The brain does not recognize the artificial divide between neurology and psychiatry. Many patients suffer because of this separation in training and practice. Allowing psychiatrists to train in neurology will bridge this gap and benefit millions.”
The Society’s proposal comes at a time when mental health issues are on the rise and the need for interdisciplinary approaches is being recognized globally. IPS leaders have submitted formal recommendations to the National Medical Commission (NMC), the apex regulatory body for medical education in India, seeking a policy revision.
Medical education experts supporting the IPS’s call highlight that psychiatrists are already trained in neurobiology, psychopharmacology, and the diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders. With additional neurology training, they would be uniquely positioned to manage complex cases that straddle both specialties.
However, some neurologists have expressed concerns about maintaining high standards of clinical training and ensuring that core neurology competencies are met. The IPS has responded by proposing bridge courses and standardized entrance criteria for psychiatry postgraduates wishing to pursue DM Neurology.
The NMC is expected to review the recommendations in the coming months. If accepted, the move could set a precedent for greater integration between medical specialties in India, potentially transforming the landscape of brain and mental health care.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Edex Live on June 3, 2025. The policy changes discussed are proposals and have not yet been implemented. For the latest updates and official announcements, please refer to the National Medical Commission and the Indian Psychiatric Society.
