NRI Quota Seats in Punjab Medical Colleges Go Unsold
Faridkot, Punjab: A significant number of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) quota seats in medical and dental colleges across Punjab have remained vacant even after two rounds of counseling. This is attributed to the high tuition fees associated with these seats.
Of the total 366 MBBS and BDS seats under the NRI quota, a staggering 291 (80%) remain unoccupied. This includes all 181 BDS seats in private dental colleges. The high cost of education, with a full course fee for an NRI quota MBBS seat reaching US$1.1 lakh (Rs. 92 lakh), is deterring many potential students.
The NRI quota seats are a primary source of revenue for medical and dental colleges in Punjab. However, the steep fees are making it a less attractive option compared to other countries like Ukraine, where similar courses are offered at significantly lower costs.
Dr Raj Bahadur, former BFUHS vice-chancellor, emphasized the financial burden on NRI students and their families, noting that many cannot afford the exorbitant fees. He added that the cost of living and other expenses during the five-year course further contribute to the unappealing nature of these seats.
The lack of demand for NRI quota seats is a concerning trend for medical and dental colleges in Punjab, as it impacts their revenue streams. It also highlights the need for a re-evaluation of the fee structure to make these seats more accessible to international students.