March 13, 2026
The All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) has asked the Government of India to withdraw a recent notice issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The notice requires Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) to complete additional onsite training if they attended online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
AIMSA wrote a letter to Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda requesting immediate action. The association said the rule may create problems for thousands of Indian students who studied medicine abroad during the pandemic.
Medical Education Went Online During COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many universities around the world shifted to online classes because of lockdowns, travel restrictions, and safety concerns. Medical universities also adopted online or hybrid learning so that students could continue their studies.
AIMSA said students had no control over this situation and simply followed the teaching methods arranged by their universities.
New Rule May Create Problems for FMGs
According to the NMC notice, FMGs who studied online during the pandemic may need to complete additional onsite training to make up for those classes.
However, AIMSA believes this rule is unfair. Many students have already completed their medical education according to the rules that were in place at that time.
Most FMGs also complete important requirements such as passing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or National Exit Test (NEXT) and doing a compulsory internship in India.
Many Students Studying in Russia and Other Countries
The association also pointed out that thousands of Indian students study medicine abroad, especially in countries like Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe.
If this rule is implemented, it could delay the careers of many graduates who are already preparing to start their medical practice in India.
AIMSA’s Main Demands
AIMSA has asked the government to take three important steps:
- Withdraw the NMC notice about mandatory onsite compensation training
- Give exemptions to students affected by the pandemic
- Avoid applying new rules to students who enrolled under old regulations
The association said students should not be punished for circumstances that happened during the global pandemic.
Students Waiting for Government Decision
The issue has become a major concern among Indian students studying medicine abroad. Many FMGs are now waiting for the government’s response to AIMSA’s request.
Students hope the authorities will consider the challenges faced during the pandemic and take a fair decision that protects their future careers.
