Georgia MBBS Row: NMC Issues Conflicting Responses on FMGE Eligibility for Indian Students

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has reportedly issued differing responses regarding the eligibility of Indian students pursuing medical degrees in Georgia to appear for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE). According to PTI, the NMC initially clarified on September 24 that graduates must obtain an independent licence to practise medicine in Georgia, as required under the Foreign Medical Graduate Licentiate Regulations, 2021.

However, in an October 13 response, the regulator stated that provisions concerning independent licensing were under examination by an expert committee, creating uncertainty among aspiring doctors. Legal experts have warned that education consultants may exploit this ambiguity to encourage students to enrol in foreign medical universities without clear assurance of eligibility to practise in India. Concerns have also emerged over Georgia's clarification permitting graduates to work as junior doctors under supervision rather than independently. Lawyers have urged the NMC and Union Health Ministry to publish a list of compliant foreign institutions, according to an India Today report.