Maharashtra Medical Interns Demand Stipend Hike Ahead of Strike
Over 8,000 medical interns in Maharashtra threaten to strike unless their stipend is increased from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000.
Medical interns plan to strike from November 1 if stipend demands are unmet.
The current stipend of ₹18,000 is significantly lower than in other states.
Support for the interns' demands has been voiced by the Indian Medical Association.
In a significant move, over 8,000 medical interns across Maharashtra have announced plans to initiate a strike starting November 1 if their stipend is not increased from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000. The interns, represented by the Association of State Medical Interns (ASMI), are also planning to wear black ribbons in hospitals on Thursday to express their discontent silently.
The interns are currently completing a mandatory one-year internship required for their MBBS degrees, which follows their final examinations. This internship is crucial for obtaining permanent medical registration. ASMI president Dr. Rushikesh Sangle noted that the strike could disrupt services in 42 government hospitals and 28 major private hospitals affiliated with medical colleges, potentially affecting emergency services and outpatient departments.
Earlier this month, a delegation from ASMI met with Maharashtra’s medical education minister, Hasan Mushrif, who reportedly indicated that a stipend increase had been approved and was pending finalization by the planning and finance department. However, no formal implementation has occurred yet. Comparatively, Odisha offers the highest stipend in India at ₹41,000-₹44,000, while Maharashtra's current stipend ranks lower than several states, including West Bengal and Delhi.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed support for the interns, highlighting that the existing stipend does not align with the rising cost of living and the responsibilities placed on interns. The IMA's letter to state authorities emphasized the financial burdens faced by medical graduates, including accommodation and transportation costs, which have intensified during their training period.
Looking ahead, the ASMI delegation is scheduled to meet with Minister Mushrif later this week to further discuss their demands. The outcome of this meeting could determine whether the strike proceeds as planned. The interns are hopeful for a resolution that acknowledges their financial challenges and professional contributions to the healthcare system.
