The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) has revised the guidelines for the issuance of Statement of Need (SON) certificate, Exceptional Need Certificate (ENC), and No Obligation to Return to India (NORI) certificate.
These guidelines aim to streamline the process and ensure compliance with the relevant regulations. The following are the highlights of these guidelines:
Statement of Need (SON) Certificate:
- Applicants seeking a SON certificate will now be required to execute a Surety bond of Rs. 10 Lakhs on a non-judicial stamp paper of Rs. 100.
- Two sureties are mandatory, with one being a close relative based in India and the other not related to the applicant, both with sufficient financial standing.
- The SON will be issued for a maximum period of 7 years on a J-1 visa in the USA or as per the laws of any other country.
- Foreign Medical Graduates without Medical Council of India (MCI) registration must provide an affidavit stating their intention to acquire MCI registration within 2 years of completing the course/training.
Exceptional Need Certificate (ENC):
- ENC will be issued for specialty and super specialty programs exceeding a certain duration.
- Similar to SON, applicants for ENC must execute a Surety bond of Rs. 10 Lakhs on a non-judicial stamp paper of Rs. 100 with two sureties.
- The conditions regarding sureties and bond payment are akin to those for SON.
No Obligation to Return to India (NORI) Certificate:
- NORI may be issued to medical professionals, including foreign medical graduates on J1 Visa, and those in dental and allied health services.
- Specific conditions apply to candidates applying for NORI.
General Conditions:
- Candidates must inform the issuing authority of their arrival in India within three months from the completion of the course mentioned in the certificate.
- Failure to comply within the stipulated time or providing a valid explanation may lead to penal actions, including payment of the bond amount with interest.
These guidelines emphasize the importance of accountability and adherence to regulations within the medical profession. They are particularly relevant for those seeking certifications and permissions to practice abroad. Compliance with these guidelines is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure smooth professional transitions
