Government Lowers NEET-PG Cut-Off Scores
In a significant move, the Indian government has revised the qualifying cut-off for the NEET-PG 2025 examination, now set at -40 out of 800. This change aims to fill over 9,000 vacant postgraduate medical seats at a time when India faces a notable shortage of doctors. The announcement was made by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) on January 14, 2026.
The qualifying percentile for candidates in general and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) has been adjusted from the 50th to the 7th percentile. For candidates with benchmark disabilities (PwBD), the percentile was lowered from 45 to 5. Moreover, for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), the qualifying percentile dropped from 40 to zero, highlighting the stark adjustments being made.
Significance of the Decision
This change comes against a backdrop of rising concerns regarding unfilled PG medical seats, which has social ramifications, particularly in government hospitals that heavily rely on resident doctors. In total, authorities indicated that around 2.4 lakh candidates took the NEET-PG this year, yet high cut-off scores prevented a significant number from qualifying.
According to officials, India has approximately 65,000 to 70,000 PG medical seats, and leaving nearly one in seven of these vacant could hinder the operations of teaching hospitals and disrupt healthcare services in the country. A representative from the Indian Medical Association (IMA) expressed gratitude for the revision, stating that a rational adjustment was crucial to avoid large-scale vacancies that would exacerbate existing doctor shortages.
Details of the Revised Cut-Offs
Category-Wise Adjustments
The decision signifies a drastic shift in how candidates are evaluated. For general and EWS candidates, the reduction in percentile eligibility is designed to widen the net for doctor training opportunities. The explanation provided by NBEMS officials stressed that the NEET-PG exam serves to produce a merit list rather than assess the abilities of doctors who have already completed medical school education.
Officials stated, “You can’t afford to let 9,000-10,000 PG seats go to waste,” emphasizing the importance of filling these crucial medical education opportunities to strengthen the healthcare system.
Response from Health Authorities
While acknowledging the potential backlash regarding these sharp reductions in cut-off scores, officials argued that the timeline for admissions was already delayed, necessitating immediate action. Historically, cut-offs have been lowered in phases; however, this year’s timing required a more proactive approach to ensure that medical resources were not squandered.
They underscored that the alterations in cut-offs do not influence actual exam scores or ranks but simply determine eligibility for counselling. This method intends to create a larger pool of candidates available for admission to PG programs.
Consequences of Unfilled Medical Seats
The IMA has been vocal about the implications of vacant PG seats. They argue that such vacancies not only heighten the existing shortages of resident doctors but also contribute to increased workloads for those currently serving in medical institutions. Additionally, empty seats disrupt academic continuity, adversely affecting patient care, particularly in government hospitals.
An IMA representative noted, “The shortage of resident doctors creates a cascade of issues, impacting both healthcare delivery and medical education.” They emphasized that addressing these vacancies was pivotal for the sustainability of the healthcare infrastructure.
Future Directions
With the revised cut-off now in place, officials are hopeful that a significant number of eligible candidates will step forward for PG medical training. The current academic year is already considerably behind schedule, and timely implementation of this cut-off adjustment is seen as essential to streamline the admissions process effectively.
NBEMS reiterated that the aim of these changes is to fortify existing medical resources rather than lowering healthcare standards. They are working closely with medical institutions to ensure this transition goes smoothly and leads to a successful admissions cycle.
Final Remarks
The government’s revision of the NEET-PG cut-off score represents a vital step towards addressing the acute need for trained medical professionals in India. Stakeholders such as the IMA are watching keenly as these developments unfold, hoping that they result in improved healthcare delivery across the nation.
As discussions continue on the reforms required in medical education and training, officials remain committed to making necessary adjustments to enhance doctor availability. The implications of this decision will be felt across the healthcare sector as the country strives to educate and certify more qualified medical personnel.