Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) in Uttar Pradesh are protesting in Lucknow, voicing their frustration over the limited number of internship seats available in the state. While over 1,000 FMGs have applied for internships, the Uttar Pradesh Medical Council (UPMC) has reportedly released only around 800 seats so far leaving hundreds of qualified candidates without placements.
Dr. Sudhanshu Pandey, President of the Doctor Welfare Federation (DWF), UP, highlighted the mental strain and career setbacks caused by the delay. “These students have been waiting for five months to begin their internships. This prolonged uncertainty is not only unjust but is also seriously affecting their futures,” he said. According to Dr. Pandey, over 500 FMGs are currently struggling to secure seats.
In a formal letter dated June 16, 2025, DWF addressed the UPMC Registrar, drawing attention to the discrepancy between the actual number of seats available and those released. As per the National Medical Commission (NMC), Uttar Pradesh has over 2,500 internship slots for FMGs, yet only a fraction about 800 has been made available so far.
The letter emphasized that each applicant paid a fee of ₹6,000, and despite completing the application process, a significant number are now left in limbo. The association urged the authorities to take swift action by increasing the number of available internship seats, ensuring timely placements for all applicants.
The All FMGs Association also raised its voice on social media, posting on X that despite the availability of more than 2,500 seats, UPMC has released only a limited number, leaving more than 500 FMGs without options. The association also shared a screenshot of a reply from UPMC, which suggested that applicants who do not receive a seat could either try in another state or wait for future counseling rounds.
Reacting strongly to the suggestion, the association questioned the treatment of FMGs in the state, tagging key officials including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the NMC. “FMGs have waited for months under extreme stress. Now they’re being asked to look elsewhere or wait even longer. Is this the treatment we deserve from a state like Uttar Pradesh?” the post read, calling for immediate intervention and expansion of available seats.