In a major policy change, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has restored the 30% faculty quota for MSc/PhD holders in non-clinical departments of medical colleges across India. This update comes after the quota was cut to 15% under the 2020 Minimum Standard Requirements (MSR), which led to protests and legal challenges.
According to the latest gazette notification by NMC:
“In the departments of Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Pharmacology, non-medical teachers may be appointed to the extent of 30% of the total number of posts, subject to the non-availability of medical teachers.”
- Previous Quota (2020 Guidelines): 15%
- Revised Quota (2025 Notification): 30%
- Applicable Departments:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Eligibility: MSc/PhD holders in relevant subjects
This revision offers relief to hundreds of educators with non-medical postgraduate and doctoral qualifications who were previously left uncertain about their future roles in teaching.
Dr Arjun Maitra, President of the National Medical M.Sc. Teachers’ Association (NMMTA), welcomed the move. He called it a fair step towards recognizing academic merit in non-clinical medical education.
While NMMTA’s legal case remains pending, the recent decision has eased tensions. However, NMMTA Secretary Dr Ayan Das highlighted the need for clear guidelines on:
- The definition of the “transitional period”
- Clarification on UGC norms related to part-time and in-service PhDs
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Experts believe this decision will support the growing need for qualified faculty in India’s expanding medical education sector.
