New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram: Medical education is set to be affordable in in private medical colleges and deemed universities across India from the next academic year (2022-23). The National Medical Commission (NMC) has mandated that the fees for 50% medical seats in private institutions should be on a par with that charged by government colleges in respective states.
The NMC guideline to private colleges will be applicable for undergraduate (MBBS) and post-graduate (MD) medical courses.
The new fee structure is applicable for those who have secured admission in the government quota seat. In the event of government quota being below 50 per cent, the government fee will be made applicable on the basis of the merit for the rest of the students (up to 50 per cent).
The admission process for 2021-22 has not been completed yet because of the delay caused due to COVID-19 pandemic. The new fee structure would be applicable for the next batch.
The new norm will be in force in Kerala too from next academic year.
The basis of the NMC order
The NMC had issued an order on February 3 about charging government fee in 50% seats in private medical colleges and deemed universities.
The NMC wants the fee structure to promote education, not profiteering. Charging capitation fee in any form is prohibited. Even though the cost of running and maintaining the college can be factored in while calculating the fee, excessive expenditure and excessive profit will not be allowed, NMC has made it clear that these guidelines would be enforced strictly from next year.
MBBS: First allotment complete
The first allotment for MBBS admission for the 2021-22 academic year in Kerala has been completed. In the next phase, option registration will begin from March 8. The second allotment is on March 14.