Srinagar May 12 (KNS): delegation of MBBS interns from various Government Medical Colleges of J&K met with the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Advisor to the Chief Minister, and the Health Minister today to appeal for the immediate resolution of the long-pending demand for a hike in internship stipends. The interns presented a detailed memorandum, highlighting the urgent need for implementation of the revised stipend structure as recommended by the official committee.
The Health Minister, while acknowledging the immense workload shouldered by MBBS interns and terming the demand for stipend enhancement as “genuine and justified,” explained the administrative roadblock that has stalled progress. She informed the delegation that the Finance Department has conditioned the approval of the proposed stipend hike on an increase in MBBS Course fees—a move she firmly opposed in the larger interest of medical students in J&K, stating that such a move would be unfair to future MBBS students.
“The Health Minister has clearly communicated to the Finance Department that no fee hike should be imposed on MBBS students in exchange for the stipend revision. She assured us that the proposal would be resubmitted without any linkage to fee increase, and that she is actively monitoring the matter herself,” said Dr. Manaan, one of the representatives.
The delegation also met with the Hon’ble Advisor to the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister, both of whom extended their support. They acknowledged the critical role played by interns in daily hospital functioning and called for expedited approval of the revised stipend structure.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelBoth dignitaries commended the interns for their dedication and professionalism during their clinical duties.
Presently, MBBS interns in J&K receive ?12,300 per month—a figure last revised in January 2019. The Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department had constituted a committee under Government Order No. 538-JK(HME) in June 2023. The committee recommended increasing the stipend to ?26,350, in line with National Medical Commission (NMC) norms, and submitted its report in August 2023. However, the matter remains stalled in the Finance Department since January 2024.
Citing growing disparities with other Indian states and mounting financial stress, the interns have made a heartfelt appeal to the Hon’ble Chief Minister to personally intervene. “Since the Finance Department falls under the domain of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, we humbly request his urgent intervention to grant budgetary approval for the stipend hike. It would bring immense relief and recognition to interns who are at the frontline of patient care,” said another member of the delegation.
The delegation expressed confidence that with the combined support of the Hon’ble Health Minister, Deputy CM, Advisor, and the personal intervention of the Chief Minister, the proposal for stipend revision will soon be approved—upholding both equity and dignity for future doctors of J&K. (KNS)