Strict guidelines regarding the reporting of stipend payments to medical students have been issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC) to medical colleges. The NMC Secretary, Dr. B Srinivas, stressed the need for transparency in stipend distributions and warned universities that do not comply risk dire consequences.
Dr. Srinivas states that the NMC is concerned with making sure resident physicians and students are well. The NMC’s insistence that monthly stipend reports be posted on the websites of all medical institutions is proof of this dedication. If this data is not provided, disciplinary action may be taken.
The NMC’s position is consistent with prior decisions made by the Supreme Court, which has heard instances involving medical students who are not receiving enough or no stipend money. Complaints from MBBS interns and resident physicians, especially those in private medical colleges, brought this matter to the Court’s notice.
The NMC has ordered medical institutions to produce comprehensive reports on stipend payments for the academic year 2023–2024 in compliance to the Court’s directions. This information will be brought before the Supreme Court on May 6, 2024, at the next hearing. The NMC is resolved to prosecute colleges that fail to meet their stipend requirements.
The Supreme Court’s intention to take decisive action on non-compliance with stipend requirements emphasizes how serious the situation is. This involves gathering thorough information on stipend payments from all medical institutions, which is necessary for responsible and well-informed decision-making.
These guidelines have their roots in the ongoing grievances of medical students—particularly interns—about sporadic or nonexistent stipend payments in spite of their long and arduous shift work in hospitals. The NMC’s efforts to resolve these complaints demonstrate their dedication to defending the welfare and rights of medical students across the country.
Medical colleges are now expected to produce comprehensive stipend reports for a variety of student categories, including UG Interns, Post-Graduate Residents, and Senior Residents or PGs in Super Specialty, in light of the Supreme Court’s instructions and the NMC’s proactive efforts. Specific information like the monthly disbursements, the amount of the stipend given, and, if relevant, government contributions must all be included in these reports.
The legal responsibilities under the Supreme Court’s orders and the necessity of correct and timely reporting are emphasized in the NMC’s warning to medical colleges. Colleges are required to submit thorough reports to the NMC by designated deadlines and to update information regarding stipend specifics on their websites on a regular basis.
Overall, these actions highlight a determined attempt on the part of judicial entities such as the Supreme Court and regulatory bodies such as the NMC to address systemic concerns pertaining to medical education, namely with regard to financial support for students during their training and internship periods. The emphasis on openness, responsibility, and the wellbeing of students is indicative of a larger effort to raise the standard and equity of medical education and practice in India.
SOURCE:
SARKARI DOCTOR
