Key highlights of the reforms include:
1. PhD Programmes in Medical Colleges
For the first time, the NMC will introduce structured PhD programmes in clinical and biomedical research across all NMC-recognised medical colleges — not just elite national institutions. A specialised committee will soon finalise the framework, guidelines, and curriculum for these research pathways, marking a departure from the earlier limited PhD landscape.
This is expected to bridge the long-standing gap between teaching and research, encourage hypothesis-driven science, improve institutional research output, and nurture the next generation of academic clinician-scientists.
2. Boost in MBBS & Postgraduate Seats
The NMC reaffirmed its commitment to expanding medical education capacity annually. As part of the government’s multi-year plan — targeting approximately 75,000 new UG and PG seats over the next five years — the expansion aims to balance the long-standing MBBS to PG seat ratio and provide more opportunities for medical aspirants across India.
This follows recent NMC moves authorising 10,650 new MBBS seats and 41 new medical colleges for 2025-26, bringing the total undergraduate intake significantly higher nationwide.
3. Strengthening NEET UG & PG Systems
The reforms include improvements to the NEET UG process, ensuring more streamlined and transparent procedures for undergraduate medical admissions. For postgraduate admissions, discussions are ongoing about integrating NExT — envisioned as both a licentiate and ranking exam — with the existing NEET PG framework, although implementation timelines remain under consultation.
This clarification is especially crucial as medical students and educators have voiced concerns about the future of NEET PG and NExT schedules nationwide.
4. Vision for Future Medical Graduates
The NMC emphasised that the National Exit Test (NExT) will ultimately serve as a licence-equivalent examination for MBBS graduates and could shape postgraduate admission pathways. Authorities have stressed creating a favourable environment and adequate preparation time before full implementation.
Impact & Expert Reactions
Experts say the reforms represent a paradigm shift in Indian medical education, aligning it with global standards by:
- Encouraging institution-wide research ecosystems
- Enhancing faculty quality and accountability
- Reducing the disconnect between clinical training and research output
Medical aspirants and educators have welcomed the PhD initiative but are keenly watching for final details on NExT timelines and postgraduate seat expansions.