The National Medical Commission (NMC) has recently clarified that foreign medical students who completed part of their MBBS education through online or distance learning must undergo mandatory on-site clinical training. The directive, circulated to State Medical Councils, aims to ensure that foreign medical graduates (FMGs) gain sufficient hands-on experience before applying for registration in India. However, the move has triggered strong reactions from the FMG community.
The Foreign Medical Graduates’ Association has raised objections to the NMC’s rule, calling for its withdrawal. According to the association, the requirement places an additional burden on students who have already completed their medical education and, in many cases, internships abroad. Moreover, they argue that the directive does not adequately consider the practical challenges faced by students.
A major concern highlighted by FMGs is the requirement to return to their foreign institutions for compensation training. Students have pointed out that this may involve high financial costs, visa complications, and logistical difficulties. Many have also questioned how uniformly the rule will be implemented across different countries and institutions.
The directive is expected to affect the timelines of thousands of FMGs planning to practice in India. Additional clinical training requirements could delay registration, leading to extended waiting periods before graduates can begin their medical careers. Further, this has raised concerns about financial strain and uncertainty among students.
The NMC has maintained that the rule is necessary to uphold medical education standards. Authorities have emphasized that clinical skills and patient interaction cannot be fully developed through online learning, making in-person training essential. The directive is intended to bridge gaps in practical exposure caused during periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The FMG association has urged the NMC to reconsider the directive and engage with student representatives before enforcing it. They have called for clearer guidelines and more flexible solutions that take into account the diverse situations of students studying abroad.
As discussions continue, students are awaiting further clarification from the NMC. The outcome of this issue will be significant for thousands of foreign medical graduates and could shape future policies related to medical education abroad and licensing in India.
