Indian Medical Association (IMA) Urges Health Minister to Withdraw NExT Exam

IMA's Stand Against NExT Exam: Advocating for Fairness and Clarity in Medical Education, it has also demanded for employment of MBBS graduates in sub centres and wellness centres.

In a bold move reflecting growing concerns within the medical community, Dr. R V Asokan, National President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and Dr. Anilkumar J Nayak, Honorary Secretary General of the IMA, have penned a letter to Health Minister Masukh Mandaviya outlining a comprehensive Charter of Demands. Among these demands is a fervent call to withdraw the National Exit Test (NExT) for medical graduates.

Highlighting the inadequacies and complexities associated with NExT, the IMA asserts that the implementation of a licensing exam for Indian medical students graduating from Indian medical colleges signifies a failure in the system of medical education. Moreover, the IMA contends that the purpose and efficacy of NExT in simultaneously judging basic licensing for medical practice and selecting meritorious candidates for postgraduate studies remain unclear, rendering the examination unjust and untenable.

The suspension of NExT, which has been under deliberation for nearly two years, comes amid renewed scrutiny from the National Medical Commission (NMC), the regulatory body overseeing medical education and professionals. While the NMC seeks feedback on the preparation for implementing NExT, the IMA maintains its steadfast opposition, citing the need for uniform standards of education across medical colleges in India.

Despite differing opinions on the necessity and impact of NExT, medical education experts emphasize the potential benefits of standardization. Proponents argue that standardized examinations would incentivize medical institutions to maintain a minimum standard of education, thereby enhancing the quality of medical education and facilitating students' success in examinations.

In addition to the demand to withdraw NExT, the IMA's Charter of Demands encompasses various other critical issues, including the augmentation of medical officer positions nationwide to align with population needs and the cessation of attempts to integrate various systems of medicine in the interest of patient care and safety.

As the discourse surrounding NExT and other pertinent issues in medical education continues, the IMA's proactive stance underscores its commitment to advocating for the welfare of medical professionals and the integrity of medical practice in India.