The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued Interim Guidelines for MBBS admissions of Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) for the academic year 2025-2026, following directions from the Supreme Court. The core focus has shifted from a strict percentage of disability to a functional competency-based approach and the provision of reasonable accommodations.
Key Highlights of NMC PwBD Guidelines
- Reservation: A 5% horizontal reservation for PwBD candidates is maintained for admission to both undergraduate (MBBS) and postgraduate (MD/MS) medical courses, in compliance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
- Functional Assessment: The guidelines emphasize assessing a candidate’s functional ability to meet the academic and clinical demands of the MBBS course, moving away from rigid, arithmetic disability thresholds. Designated Medical Boards must evaluate what candidates can do, considering their ability to compensate for deficiencies.
- Documentation: PwBD candidates must submit:
- A valid Unique Disability ID (UDID) card issued by a designated medical authority under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE).
- A Self-Certified Affidavit in the format provided by NMC, declaring their functional abilities.
- Verification: Candidates must report to one of the 16 designated Medical Boards for verification of their self-certified affidavit and evaluation of their functional abilities. The boards are responsible for issuing a reasoned, documented decision regarding the candidate’s eligibility.
- Compliance: Medical colleges are directed to implement these guidelines in letter and spirit, ensuring equitable access and providing necessary accommodations and barrier-free infrastructure as per the RPwD Act, 2016.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for reservation, a candidate must have a minimum of 40% of a specified disability (Benchmark Disability) as per the RPwD Act, 2016.
The NMC’s shift in guidelines aims to promote a more inclusive and diverse medical workforce by prioritizing a candidate’s functional capability and providing necessary support.
You can learn more about the rights of persons with disabilities in India by watching Understanding The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. This video provides a general overview of the RPwD Act, 2016, which is the foundational legislation for PwBD reservation and rights, including in medical admissions.
