Maharashtra Medical Interns Push for Stipend Increase to ₹30,000
Medical interns in Maharashtra are advocating for a stipend raise from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000, citing increased living costs.
Interns demand a stipend hike to ₹30,000 due to rising living expenses.
The Association of State Medical Interns has submitted multiple representations to authorities.
The state government is considering the proposal following discussions with the Medical Education Minister.
Medical interns in Maharashtra are calling for an increase in their monthly stipend from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000. This demand comes as they navigate the financial pressures of living expenses while fulfilling their internship duties across various government and affiliated medical colleges in the state.
The interns, who have completed their MBBS degrees, are currently engaged in Compulsory Rotatory Residential Internship (CRRI), which involves extensive responsibilities including patient examinations, emergency services, and various practical tasks in medical departments. The Association of State Medical Interns (ASMI) has highlighted that the existing stipend is insufficient given the rising costs of accommodation, transportation, and food, which have significantly increased over the past few months.
In a formal representation to the state government, ASMI pointed out that the current stipend does not align with the financial realities faced by interns, especially considering their full-time commitment and the demanding nature of their work. They have submitted around 15 letters to various officials, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif, but have yet to receive a response.
On October 1, ASMI representatives met with Minister Mushrif to discuss their request for a stipend increase. During this meeting, they reiterated the importance of fair compensation for the interns' contributions. Mushrif expressed a positive outlook regarding the stipend increase, noting that the medical education department has recommended a proposal for a hike to the planning and finance department, aiming to align it with recent increases in other states.
Looking ahead, the ASMI continues to advocate for their cause, emphasizing the need for a timely resolution to their demands. The ongoing discussions with state officials suggest that a decision may be forthcoming, which could significantly impact the financial well-being of medical interns in Maharashtra.
