“I don’t mind increasing the duration of MBBS to 6.5 years. In the US, students have to go for six years of additional study to be able to prescribe medicines and practise,” – Indian Health Minister

The proposed one-year increase in MBBS duration is being contemplated to set aside an additional year for mandatory rural service. The proposal is to award the MBBS degree only after the completion of 5.5 years of regular MBBS course and one year of rural posting, which would be linked to the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM).

“Doctors’ organisations are opposing the course. I have no hesitation in saying that they have a vested interest to increase their practice.”

“The curriculum is ready. States are free to implement the course, as Assam is doing, but we want the MCI’s recognition to provide uniform standards for the course across India. We hope the MCI will move fast,” he said.