JnK to Mandate Bond Service for MD, MS aspirants

The initiative aims to retain specialist doctors in J&K’s healthcare system, a long-standing demand from stakeholders.

Announcing the decision, Minister Sakeena Itoo emphasized that medical graduates from J&K benefit from government-funded education and must contribute to the region’s healthcare system in return.

"They get degrees on the money of our people," she stated, stressing that these doctors must serve the people of J&K before seeking opportunities elsewhere, reports Kashmir news observer

Mandatory Bond to Prevent Specialist Drain

The minister stated that the government is examining regulations and will soon mandate that doctors serve within J&K, similar to other Indian states.

"We have examined the rules and soon they will need to serve in J&K for two years, like it is mandatory in other medical colleges of India," she stated.

The proposed service bond will require MD/MS doctors to work for 2-3 years in government hospitals and health centers across the UT.

"Rules must be relaxed only where it benefits patient care and healthcare delivery," the minister added, hinting at possible exemptions based on service needs.

Also Read: 1-year Compulsory Bond Service, Rs 15 Lakh Penalty: Karnataka Bond policy for MBBS admissions

Lack of Service Bond Led to Loss of Specialists

Currently, J&K does not have any service bond for postgraduate medical students. However, aspirants from J&K who secure MD/MS seats in other Indian states are required to sign bonds agreeing to serve in those states for three years or face a hefty penalty.

MD/MS aspirants from J&K, when they get a seat in a medical college outside J&K, have to sign a bond that they would serve in the state where the medical college is located for a period of three years usually. Failing this, they are levied a heavy fine

Due to the absence of such a policy in J&K, most doctors leave after completing their MD/MS, leading to a loss of specialists in the region.

Decision Follows Long-Pending Demand

The demand for a mandatory service bond has been raised for years by stakeholders concerned about J&K’s doctor shortage.

"The demand has been a long pending one from stakeholders in J&K," reports stated, indicating growing pressure on the government to retain medical professionals in the UT (KNO).

The minister confirmed that the final implementation is expected soon, with policy changes currently under review, reports Greater Kashmir.

"Earlier in December 2024, the Minister had said that the issue had been discussed and mandatory service will be made mandatory soon," indicating the government’s commitment to the policy.