In a move that has stirred concerns among Indian medical aspirants, Nepal's recent stand on FMGL regulations continues to face scrutiny by experts. In its latest notification, the Nepal Medical Commission has clarified that international students who graduated from Nepali Medical Institutes will not be deemed eligible for a license to practice in Nepal as natives. This implies that Indian students who have enrolled in Nepal after 2021 or planning to move to Nepal for their MBBS degree may face uncertainty.
While the National Medical Commission has issued stricter guidelines for Foreign Medical Graduates ensuring educational equivalency, the new policies issued by Nepal's Medical Commission have introduced greater complexities. In recent developments, the NMC reiterated that, despite having received education in Nepal, Indian students may not be eligible for practice licenses on par with Nepali citizens upon graduation. This stand of the Nepal Medical Commission has thrown the career of 700 to 900 students who move to Nepal every year for their medical education.
On April 12, 2023, the Nepal Medical Commission published a notification in the National Gazette announcing that it would not issue licensure to international students. However, the commission also clarified that while international students are permitted to sit for the licensure exam in Nepal, they will not be granted a permanent practicing license that is equivalent to that of Nepali graduates.
In response to growing student anxiety, Dr. B. Srinivas- Secretary, of the National Medical Commission of India; outlined the criteria for acquiring a "Good Standing Certificate". This certificate is an essential document for Indian students who wish to return to India to pursue medical practice after studying abroad. The issuance of this certificate hinges upon the educational standards in foreign institutions aligning with NMC's regulations.
“Nepal's evolving stance complicates matters,” Dr. Srinivas explained, “Students must ensure that they understand the licensing implications and seek admission to institutions where their qualifications will be recognized, both in India and abroad.”
As Nepal prepares to launch its next round of counseling for MBBS admissions, Indian students are left at a crossroads, faced with the decision to stay and complete their studies under uncertain conditions or to withdraw. Many are hopeful that ongoing discussions will lead to more favorable policies, allowing for smoother transitions and better career prospects post-graduation.
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