NEW DELHI – The National Medical Commission (NMC) has labeled a recent Andhra Pradesh High Court (HC) order, which granted permanent registration to Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs), as an “arbitrary relaxation” of its regulations. This move has prompted the Andhra Pradesh Medical Council (APMC) to file a review petition seeking clarity and more time.
The NMC’s primary objection stems from the court’s decision, which it argues bypasses the mandatory completion of clinical courses through physical, offline study. According to the NMC, online study cannot be considered a legitimate substitute for hands-on clinical training, a crucial component of medical education.
Key Requirements and Review Petition
The NMC regulations stipulate that FMGs, particularly those whose education was disrupted by events like the COVID-19 pandemic or the Russia-Ukraine war, must complete additional clerkship in India to compensate for any periods of online learning. This is in addition to the standard one-year compulsory internship. Furthermore, the NMC requires compensatory certificates from foreign institutions to be meticulously detailed, authenticated, and verified by Indian embassies.
The APMC, acting on the NMC’s recommendation, filed a review petition on August 7, 2025. The council’s plea seeks further time and clarification regarding the HC’s verdict, which has created a regulatory impasse for the registration of these medical professionals.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Readers should consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance.
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