IMA backs rank-based NEET system, warns against compromising merit standards

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Wednesday endorsed the National Medical Commission's (NMC) plan to replace the percentile-based selection system with a rank-based merit framework for postgraduate and super-speciality medical course admissions. Under the proposed reform, examination results will display only ranks rather than percentile scores.

While welcoming the structural change, the IMA cautioned that the new system must not become a vehicle for filling vacant seats at the expense of academic standards and clinical competence. The doctors' body stressed that minimum educational qualifications and merit-based selection remain non-negotiable in medical education to maintain patient safety and healthcare quality.

The IMA also called for a transparent, predictable and time-bound counselling mechanism to accompany the rank-based system. The NMC has accorded in-principle approval to the proposal, with draft regulations expected to be released soon for wider stakeholder consultation.

The shift to a rank-based system is intended to bring greater clarity and predictability to postgraduate medical admissions across India's medical institutions. However, implementation details remain pending as the NMC finalises the regulatory framework for the new selection process.