Maharashtra Medical Interns Demand Stipend Increase to ₹30,000
The Association of State Medical Interns calls for a stipend hike amid warnings of a statewide strike.
ASMI represents around 8,000 MBBS interns seeking a stipend raise from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000.
Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif has forwarded the proposal to the finance department.
Interns argue that current stipends are insufficient to meet basic living expenses.
In Maharashtra, the Association of State Medical Interns (ASMI), which represents approximately 8,000 MBBS interns from government and semi-government colleges, is advocating for an increase in their monthly stipend from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000. The association has issued a warning of a potential statewide strike if the state cabinet does not approve this hike during its meeting planned for the third week of October.
On October 1, ASMI presented their demands to the state's Medical Education Minister, Hasan Mushrif. Following this meeting, Mushrif confirmed that the proposal for the stipend increase has been forwarded to the planning and finance department for consideration. He expressed optimism about the increase, stating, "We are positive about increasing the stipend for medical interns," and noted that the medical education department has recommended the hike in alignment with recent increases in other states.
ASMI representatives highlighted that Maharashtra's stipend for medical interns is among the lowest in the country, despite the interns being engaged in full-time clinical duties, including night shifts and emergency responsibilities. Dr. Rushikesh Sangle, president of ASMI, emphasized that the current stipend fails to cover essential expenses such as rent, food, transportation, and educational materials, leading many interns to remain financially dependent on their families even after completing their MBBS.
In February 2024, the state government raised the stipend from ₹11,000 to ₹18,000 after extensive lobbying efforts. However, ASMI argues that this amount is still significantly lower than what interns receive in states like Karnataka and Jharkhand. The association has urged Minister Mushrif to address their concerns promptly and ensure that the stipend is revised to reflect the cost of living and the responsibilities undertaken by interns. If their demands are not met, ASMI has indicated plans to escalate protests across medical colleges in Maharashtra.
Looking ahead, the outcome of the state cabinet's meeting in the third week of October will be crucial for the interns. The ASMI is prepared to mobilize its members for demonstrations if the stipend increase is not approved, signaling a potential escalation in their efforts to secure fair compensation for their work.
