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New Delhi: Indian nationals or Overseas Citizens of India who obtain MBBS degrees from medical colleges in Pakistan are not eligible to practice medicine or pursue higher education in India, according to a recent clarification from the Union Minister of State for Health, Smt. Anupriya Patel.
The Minister cited a National Medical Commission (NMC) notice dated April 28, 2022, which states that individuals who pursue medical degrees in Pakistan are not eligible to appear in the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) screening test or seek employment in India based on those qualifications. Foreign medical graduates are required to pass the FMGE and complete a mandatory internship to be permanently registered to practice in India.
An exception exists for those who enrolled in Pakistani medical programs before December 2018 or after obtaining security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Migrants and their children who have been granted Indian citizenship after studying medicine in Pakistan remain eligible to take the FMGE/NEXT or seek employment in India, provided they obtain security clearance.
The issue was raised in the Lok Sabha by parliament member Shri Aga Syed Rukullah Mehdi, who questioned the rationale behind the advisory, especially for students enrolled before its issuance. He also inquired about the disparity in recognizing Pakistani degrees compared to those from Bangladesh and Nepal under SAARC, despite similar curricula and accreditation. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the socio-economic impact on female students affected by the policy.
In response, the Minister reiterated the NMC’s stance, emphasizing the ineligibility for FMGE or employment in India for those with Pakistani medical degrees, with the aforementioned exceptions.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or medical advice. For specific guidance, consult with a qualified professional.
Citations:
[1] https://medicaldialogues.in/news/education/mbbs-graduates-from-pakistan-not-allowed-to-practice-in-india-mos-health-146131
