The implementation and readiness of the National Exit Test (NExT) examination are being evaluated by a committee formed under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), as revealed by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in response to a Right to Information (RTI) query. Dr. Vivek Pandey, a health activist, had sought information regarding the final draft and outcomes of the meeting held in June 2023 concerning the exam.

In its response, the NMC stated that the NExT regulations were officially notified in the Gazette of India on June 28, 2023, and are publicly accessible. However, through a notice issued on July 13, 2023, the NExT examination was deferred following the advice of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW). The postponement notice, dated July 11, 2023, indicated that further directions from the MoHFW are awaited.

To address concerns surrounding the exam’s implementation, the MoHFW set up a dedicated committee, led by the DGHS, through an order dated October 3, 2023. Originally planned for 2023, the NExT exam was postponed indefinitely due to widespread objections from the medical community.

Dr. Pandey highlighted ongoing confusion, especially regarding the impact on the 2020 MBBS batch. He emphasized the need for clarity, pointing out that students are under pressure due to the lack of detailed information about the exam structure. “Though the exam was postponed for the 2019 batch, it remains unclear whether the 2020 batch will have to appear for it. A clear framework is essential so students can plan their studies,” he added.

The NExT Controversy

Since its announcement, the NExT exam has faced significant resistance from medical professionals. The initial plan to conduct the exam for the 2019 MBBS batch was met with opposition, as students and doctors argued that it would violate the NMC Act, 2019. They claimed the 2019 batch began on August 1, 2019, before the NMC Act came into force, making it unfair to subject them to the new exam format.

The NMC had published the NExT regulations on June 28, 2023, with a mock test scheduled for July 28, 2023, to be conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. However, the backlash led to the Union Health Ministry intervening and deferring the exam indefinitely.

In response, the MoHFW constituted a seven-member committee to assess the preparedness of states and medical colleges for the 2020 batch. Meanwhile, stakeholders were invited to provide their opinions on key aspects, including whether NExT should replace or supplement the traditional MBBS final year exams, the exam pattern, and syllabus. The ongoing uncertainty continues to cause concern among students awaiting further updates.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)