Calls for NEET MDS 2024 Postponement Gain Momentum as FAIMA, Students Urge Ministry for Action

FAIMA, FORDA, and NMO, AISU Lead Efforts to Delay NEET MDS 2024 Exam, Seeking Justice for COVID-Affected Students

Medical Associations and Student Unions have united to Push for NEET MDS 2024 Exam Postponement Amid COVID-19 Disruptions. In a fresh appeal, the FAIMA Doctors Association, through a letter addressed to Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandviya, has requested the postponement of the NEET MDS exam to July 2024.

In a collective effort to address the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, medical associations and student unions across India are advocating for the postponement of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Master of Dental Surgery (NEET MDS) 2024 examination. Led by the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA Doctors Association) and the All India Student's Union (AISU), these organizations are pressing the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for action.

The FAIMA Doctors Association, through a letter addressed to Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandviya, has requested the postponement of the NEET MDS exam to July 2024. Additionally, they have urged for an extension of the eligibility criteria until August 31, 2024, to accommodate students affected by the COVID-19-related disruptions. Almost 4607 dental undergraduate students are reportedly facing eligibility issues due to internship completion delays caused by the pandemic.

Echoing these concerns, the AISU has intensified its call for the postponement of the NEET MDS exam to July. Citing various concerns raised by NEET MDS aspirants, including confusion surrounding the exam schedule and fairness for all candidates, the AISU has emphasized the need for a reevaluation of the current exam timeline.

While the demand for exam postponement remains under consideration by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the issue has garnered attention at the highest judicial level. Responding to a Writ Petition, the Supreme Court of India issued a directive on February 21, 2024, extending the internship completion cut-off date to March 31, 2024. This extension aims to enable students to participate in the NEET MDS 2024 examination, which was initially scheduled for March 18, 2024.

The Supreme Court's intervention underscores the significance of addressing the challenges faced by aspiring dental professionals amidst the pandemic-induced disruptions. As discussions continue between stakeholders and authorities, the fate of the NEET MDS 2024 exam hangs in the balance, with students' hopes pinned on a favorable resolution to ensure fairness and equity in the examination process.