As first MBBS batch takes exams, Nagaland announces ‘surety bond’ for future doctors

KOHIMA — Marking a major milestone for Nagaland, the first batch of MBBS students at the Nagaland Institute of Medical Science and Research (NIMSR) began their first university examination on Thursday.

State Health and Family Welfare minister, P Paiwang Konyak, marked the occasion by announcing the implementation of a ‘surety bond’ for MBBS graduates, mandating a period of compulsory service within the state upon graduation.

“It is to inform all the candidates that Surety Bond for compulsory service upon graduation will be implemented,” updated a press release, without going into details.

The minister also extended best wishes to the first NIMSR batch, stating that they are setting a foundation for future generations.

The exams, held under Nagaland University, will run from July 25 to August 9, 2024. Theory papers are scheduled for July 26 to August 2, while practical examinations will take place from August 7 to the 9th.

To ensure a high standard of evaluation, eminent external examiners from across India will oversee the practical exams at NIMSR.

The Health minister went on to inform that counselling for the 2024-25 academic session is expected to begin soon.

Last year, Nagaland had a total of 152 MBBS seats available, distributed across the central pool (42), the North Eastern Council (NEC) pool (25), and NIMSR (85). A similar seat allocation is anticipated for this year, he said.

It may be recalled that the NIMSR, Nagaland’s first medical college, welcomed its inaugural batch of 100 students in September 2023, after 60 years of statehood. The National Medical Commission granted approval for 100 seats for the academic year 2023-24, with 85 reserved for students from Nagaland and 15 open to candidates from other states.

Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya officially inaugurated the NIMSR on October 14, 2023.