The National Medical Commission (NMC) has published Interim Guidelines for candidates applying to the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) course under the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) category for the upcoming 2025-26 academic year. This move follows a review of the previous 2019 disability guidelines, driven by ongoing court cases and the necessity to harmonize admission procedures with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
The need for new guidelines was further emphasized by a notification from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) issued on March 12, 2024. These Interim Guidelines are effective immediately for the 2025-26 admission cycle and lay out clear requirements for all PwBD applicants.
Key Mandates for PwBD Applicants
Candidates seeking admission under the PwBD category must ensure they possess and submit the following documents:
- A Valid UDID Card (Unique Disability ID Card) issued by a Designated Medical Authority under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
- A Self-Certified Affidavit, which must be presented in the format prescribed under Schedule – I of the new guidelines.
- The applicant is required to approach the Designated Medical Board for the mandatory verification of their Self-Certified Affidavit.
Implementation and Legal Alignment
All medical colleges and institutions across the country have been directed to implement these Interim Guidelines in “letter and spirit.” This directive aims to ensure equitable access and provide necessary accommodations for PwBD candidates, in full compliance with the overarching RPwD Act, 2016.
This initiative is the result of deliberations and recommendations made by an Expert Committee established by the NMC specifically to address various representations and legal directions pertaining to disability admissions. For any queries or clarification on the implementation of the RPwD Act, institutions and concerned parties are advised to contact the relevant officers from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.