📷 Image: Indian Express (via NewsData)
Education
Government insists screening test for foreign medical graduates will keep strict standards
✍️ Indian Express
🗓 27 Aug 2026, 05:18 AM
👁 4
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reaffirmed that the qualifying criteria for the screening exam of foreign medical graduates will remain unchanged, emphasizing that standards cannot be compromised.
New Delhi – The central government reiterated that the qualifying standards for the screening test designed for foreign medical graduates will not be relaxed. A senior official from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare told reporters that any dilution of criteria would undermine the quality of medical care in the country.
The screening exam, overseen by the National Medical Commission, is a prerequisite for overseas‑trained doctors who wish to practice in India. The test assesses clinical knowledge, ethical standards and familiarity with Indian medical protocols. The ministry has maintained that the assessment framework will stay as rigorous as it was when first introduced.
Stakeholders, including medical associations, have welcomed the firm stance, noting that it safeguards patient safety and ensures parity with Indian‑trained physicians. The government has also indicated that it will continue to monitor the implementation of the test to address any procedural concerns without compromising on standards.
The screening exam, overseen by the National Medical Commission, is a prerequisite for overseas‑trained doctors who wish to practice in India. The test assesses clinical knowledge, ethical standards and familiarity with Indian medical protocols. The ministry has maintained that the assessment framework will stay as rigorous as it was when first introduced.
Stakeholders, including medical associations, have welcomed the firm stance, noting that it safeguards patient safety and ensures parity with Indian‑trained physicians. The government has also indicated that it will continue to monitor the implementation of the test to address any procedural concerns without compromising on standards.