Maharashtra MBBS Interns Demand Stipend Hike to Rs 30,000
Interns threaten statewide strike starting November 2 if demands are unmet.
MBBS interns in Maharashtra seek an increase in their stipend from Rs 18,000 to Rs 30,000.
The Association of State Medical Interns has warned of a strike if no response is received by November 1, 2026.
Interns argue that their current stipend is insufficient given rising living costs and workloads.
MBBS interns in Maharashtra have initiated protests at JJ Hospital, demanding an increase in their monthly stipend from Rs 18,000 to Rs 30,000. The interns, organized under the Association of State Medical Interns (ASMI), have set a deadline of November 1, 2026, for the government to respond to their demands, threatening a statewide strike if their request is ignored.
The issue of stipend increases has been a long-standing concern for the interns, with previous demands made as far back as 2024. Dr. Raman Pawar, General Secretary of ASMI, highlighted that despite multiple representations to various government officials, including the Chief Minister and the Education Minister, no action has been taken. The interns have submitted letters and reconsideration requests over the past months, but have yet to receive a satisfactory response.
ASMI's demands include not only the stipend hike but also a 3% annual increment and fair compensation that reflects the rising costs of living, including food, accommodation, and transportation. The association emphasizes that the extensive clinical responsibilities undertaken by intern doctors warrant a higher stipend, particularly as interns in other states receive significantly more.
Currently, the stipend for MBBS interns in Maharashtra is lower than that of their counterparts in states like Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, where interns earn Rs 25,000 and Rs 30,000, respectively. This disparity has fueled the interns' frustrations, as they argue that their workload and responsibilities in hospitals are comparable to those of fully qualified doctors.
Looking ahead, the interns have made it clear that if their demands are not met by the deadline, they will proceed with the strike starting November 2, 2026. However, they have assured that emergency medical services will continue to operate during this period. The situation remains tense as the interns await a response from the government, hoping for a resolution that addresses their financial concerns and recognizes their contributions to the healthcare system.
