The society of the Indian Academy of Medical Genetics filed a plea in the Supreme Court challenging the PG Medical Education Regulations 2000 that permit aspirants from non-clinical disciplines of medicine for Doctorate of Medicine (DM) and Medical Genetics courses. The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Centre and the National Medical Commission (NMC) over the petition.

The petition challenged NEET SS 2021 Prospectus released by NBE that allows the inclusion of candidates from broad specialties to the DM/DrNB (Doctorate of National Board) Medical Genetics courses. The petition states that the prospectus is against the recommended entries of NMC Guidelines, 2021.

As per NEET SS 2021 Eligibility Criteria for the highest clinical course of Medical Genetics, anyone who pursued MD(Doctor of Medicine)/MS(Master of Surgery)/DNB (Diplomate of National Board) in any discipline is eligible. However, as per the NMC recommended eligibility only those who have pursued post-graduate degrees in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Paediatrics, and General Medicine are eligible to apply for Medical Genetics.

The petition stated that PGI and AIIMS conduct their own entrance test for selection to Medical Genetics. They only allow applicants from specific clinical disciplines. The plea mentions that the difference in eligibility by NMC and the PG Regulations 2000 is totally irrational, arbitrary, and violates the constitutional right under Article 14. 

The counsel of the Society of Indian Academy of Medical Genetics said, “Earlier, the course was only confined to only 3 courses. As per NMC guidelines, there are only 3 courses wherein students from medical genetics can apply. Now, they have allowed it for everybody.”

NEET SS 2021 Eligibility Criteria

• The candidates need to hold a postgraduate degree in MS/MD/DNB or equivalent from a recognized institution.
• The candidates who are in their final year are also eligible to apply for NEET SS 2021.
• Candidates need to register with MCI(Medical Council of India) or any State Medical Council to be eligible for NEET SS 2021.

NEET SS 2021 is conducted for admissions to courses like DM and MCh. The candidates get admitted to the super-specialty courses offered by various institutes in India through NEET SS 2021. NEET SS 2021 is conducted every year in an online mode.