But the delay in NEET PG 2024 counseling is creating widespread frustration among aspiring doctors, especially in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, and other Himalayan states, where new medical colleges are already struggling with severe faculty shortages.
Onus lies on Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda as the Ministery is under fire for delay in counseling as the additional seats are yet to be cleared.
Doctors, particularly those waiting for additional seats to be cleared under NEET PG 2024 counseling, are voicing their concerns.
The National President of the United Doctors Front Association (UDFA) Dr Lakshya Mittal pointed out that while adding new seats is a welcome move, the process is being mishandled.
"Increasing seat capacity without proper oversight is risky. The government must focus on improving the quality of medical institutions, not just expanding them," he said.
Reports of poor infrastructure and inadequate faculty in newly established medical colleges have only added to the anxiety of aspirants.
The UDFA stressed that the push for more seats, as part of the Prime Minister’s five-year plan, shouldn't come at the expense of quality.
“We need a healthcare workforce that is both competent and well-trained, and that won’t happen if quantity is prioritized over quality,” the UDFA President added.
Aspirants across the country are now calling on the Health Ministry to expedite the counseling process and ensure that the expansion plan aligns with the needs of students and the healthcare system.