The Jammu and Kashmir government has officially sanctioned an increase in the monthly stipend for medical interns, raising it to Rs 25,000. This decision brings to an end a prolonged period of agitation by medical interns across the Union Territory who had resumed their protest earlier this week, citing unfulfilled government commitments. The interns have now formally called off their strike following the issuance of the government order.
The medical interns, encompassing both MBBS and BDS students, had been vocal about their demand for an enhanced stipend, which had remained stagnant at Rs 12,300 for approximately seven years. They argued that the unchanged stipend was disproportionate to the escalating workload and the rising cost of living. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the interns had initially sought an increase to Rs 30,000 per month, a figure that represented a significant jump from their current earnings.
The protest had gained momentum in recent weeks, with interns staging demonstrations and observing a 48-hour hunger strike to press their demands. The agitation was temporarily suspended following a crucial meeting that involved Health Minister Sakina Itoo, a delegation of interns, and senior officials from the Health Department. Despite this suspension, the interns had warned of further intensified action, including an indefinite hunger strike scheduled to commence on October 10, if their demands were not formally addressed through an official government order.
The breakthrough came on Wednesday when the Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Department issued the much-anticipated order. The directive, signed by Saugat Biswas, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Health and Medical Education Department, explicitly states the sanction for the enhancement of the monthly stipend. The order specifies that the new stipend of Rs 25,000 per month will be applicable to MBBS/BDS interns, including Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs), within the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, the revised stipend is effective retrospectively from October 1, 2026.
Mohammad Momin Khan, president of the All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) in Jammu and Kashmir, hailed the government’s decision as a significant victory for the interns. He attributed the success to the collective efforts and persistence of the interns, particularly acknowledging the dedicated representatives of AIMSA. Khan reiterated AIMSA’s ongoing commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of medical students and doctors throughout Jammu and Kashmir. The announcement of the government order led to the immediate cessation of the protest strike, marking a resolution to the long-standing issue.
The interns’ demands had highlighted a growing concern within the medical fraternity regarding the remuneration offered to those undergoing their internship period. For years, the stipend had not kept pace with inflation or the increasing responsibilities shouldered by these junior medical professionals. The prolonged period without a revision meant that interns were often struggling to meet basic living expenses, a situation that the recent hike aims to alleviate. The initial demand for Rs 30,000 reflected a desire to align their stipends with those offered in some other states or regions, acknowledging the demanding nature of their training and the essential services they provide.
The Health Minister’s involvement in the discussions underscored the seriousness with which the administration viewed the interns’ grievances. The previous suspension of the strike following the meeting indicated a willingness from both sides to find a resolution. However, the interns’ insistence on a formal government order demonstrated their need for concrete assurance rather than verbal commitments. The issuance of the order on Wednesday fulfilled this critical requirement, providing the necessary legal and administrative backing for the stipend increase.
The retrospective effect of the stipend hike, starting from October 1, 2026, is also a significant aspect of the order, ensuring that interns are compensated for the period leading up to the official announcement. This retroactive application is often a key demand in such negotiations, as it addresses the financial strain experienced by interns during the period of their advocacy. The clarity provided by the order on the effective date is expected to prevent any future disputes regarding the implementation of the new stipend rate.
The All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) has played a pivotal role in organizing and representing the interns throughout this period. Their consistent efforts in communicating the interns’ concerns to the authorities and mobilizing support have been instrumental in achieving this outcome. The statement from Mohammad Momin Khan emphasizes the power of unity and collective action in bringing about positive change. AIMSA’s continued dedication to the medical community suggests that they will remain vigilant in ensuring the welfare of medical professionals in the region.
The successful resolution of the interns’ strike is likely to be viewed as a positive development for the healthcare sector in Jammu and Kashmir. By addressing the financial concerns of medical interns, the government is not only fulfilling a commitment but also potentially enhancing the morale and motivation of future healthcare providers. This move could contribute to a more stable and dedicated medical workforce, ultimately benefiting patient care across the Union Territory. The government’s responsiveness to the interns’ demands, particularly after a period of sustained protest, signals a potential shift towards more proactive engagement with the concerns of healthcare professionals.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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