J&K Doubles MBBS, BDS Intern Stipend to Rs 25,000 After Protests

Jammu and Kashmir's medical and dental interns, including Foreign Medical Graduates, finally secured a significant win, with the government more than doubling their monthly stipend to Rs 25,000, effective October 1, 2026. This major pay hike comes after renewed protests by the interns, who accused authorities of failing to deliver on earlier promises. The decision, formalized by Government Order No. 747-JK(HME) of 2026, resolves a long-standing grievance; interns had been receiving a stagnant Rs 12,300 since 2019, despite rising living costs. This over 100% increase was a direct result of sustained pressure from groups like the All India Medical Students' Association (AIMSA) and the United Doctors Front, who had even launched a nine-day strike earlier in September 2026. The situation for Foreign Medical Graduates has also been a national talking point, with the National Medical Commission (NMC) recently tightening stipend compliance rules and states like Gujarat also fixing their FMG intern stipend. While the interns initially sought Rs 30,000, the Rs 25,000 offer was accepted, leading AIMSA to call off their latest strike immediately. This move by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health and Medical Education Minister Sakeena Itoo is expected to provide much-needed financial relief and recognize the crucial role these young medical professionals play in J&K's healthcare system. Attention may now shift to other medical professionals, with AIMSA indicating they will push for stipend hikes for postgraduate resident doctors next.