The Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) of the National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued an update regarding internship requirements for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) seeking to practice in India. This public notice was issued on June 7, 2024.
It may be recalled that the NMC by its previous circular dated May 9, 2023, allowed supplementing online medical courses with offline practical and clinical training for FMGs.
However, the UGMEB has now expressed concern about instances of FMGs acquiring fraudulent certificates claiming offline training for online courses.
New Policy
To ensure patient safety and maintain high standards in medical care, the UGMEB has will no longer accept Compensation Certificates claiming offline training to compensate for online medical courses.
FMGs who completed any portion of their medical degree online must now fulfill the following requirements:
- Pass the FMG Examination: A mandatory exam to assess their medical knowledge and skills.
- Complete Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI):
- Two or three years in duration (repeated 12-month schedules).
- Details outlined in the May 9, 2023 circular and December 7, 2023 public notice.
This policy aims to guarantee that FMGs receive a well-rounded medical education with appropriate practical experience before practicing in India. FMGs who completed online coursework must follow the updated internship pathway.
This decision prioritizes patient safety by ensuring that FMGs are adequately trained and prepared to provide high-quality medical care.
