NMC asks government medical colleges to support NBEMS in conducting PG practical exams

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has called on government medical colleges and institutions under its jurisdiction to extend full cooperation to the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) for the conduct of postgraduate and postdoctoral practical examinations.

The advisory was issued through a notice by the Postgraduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB), which highlighted the increasing pressure on examination resources due to the rising number of candidates appearing for NBEMS final practical exams.

According to the Commission, the growing candidate pool has created a higher demand for examination centers, infrastructure, clinical material, and experienced faculty members to serve as examiners.

NBEMS informed the Commission that the successful and timely conduct of practical examinations depends significantly on support from medical colleges and institutions.

However, the Board has reportedly faced challenges because of the limited availability of examination venues and situations where eligible faculty members were not relieved of examiner duties.

To address these issues, the NMC advised government medical colleges and institutions to facilitate practical examinations wherever administratively feasible.

Institutions have been asked to ensure the availability of essential infrastructure, including wards, laboratories, and appropriate clinical material or patients required for assessments.

The Commission also instructed institutions to promptly relieve nominated and eligible faculty members assigned for examiner responsibilities and coordinate closely with NBEMS to support efficient examination management.

The notice clarified that NBEMS “suitably compensates” examination centers for expenses incurred during the conduct of examinations.

It also said that examiners are paid approved remuneration for services provided as part of NBEMS academic activities.

Emphasizing the broader academic interest, the NMC said institutional and faculty cooperation would help maintain the standards of postgraduate medical education while ensuring examinations are conducted on schedule.

The Commission has asked all concerned institutions to take the necessary steps in accordance with the advisory.