In a significant move, the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) has announced separate National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) exams for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS), Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS), and Sowa-Rigpa. This decision, which will come into effect from 2023, aims to streamline the admission process and ensure that students pursuing these different medical systems receive specialized education.
The NEET is a common entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to various undergraduate medical and dental courses in India. Until now, a single NEET exam was conducted for all medical streams, including allopathy, Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. However, with the growing recognition and importance of traditional Indian medical systems, the need for separate entrance exams has been acknowledged.
The decision to have separate NEET exams for BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and Sowa-Rigpa is a step towards recognizing the unique nature of each medical system and ensuring that students are appropriately trained in their chosen field. This move will also help in maintaining the quality and standards of education in these systems.
By conducting separate NEET exams, the NCISM aims to assess the knowledge and skills of students specific to each medical system. This will enable the authorities to select candidates who are best suited for the respective courses and have a genuine interest in pursuing a career in that particular field. It will also ensure that students are well-prepared for the curriculum and can contribute effectively to the healthcare sector.
The decision to introduce a separate NEET exam for Sowa-Rigpa, a traditional Tibetan medical system, is a significant development. Sowa-Rigpa is recognized by the Government of India as a distinct medical system, and this move will further enhance its status and encourage more students to pursue this ancient healing tradition. It will also provide a platform for the assessment and recognition of the knowledge and skills of aspiring Sowa-Rigpa practitioners.
The introduction of separate NEET exams for BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and Sowa-Rigpa will also address concerns regarding the integration of different medical systems. Each system has its own unique principles, practices, and treatment methods, and it is essential to ensure that students are well-versed in the specificities of their chosen system. By having separate entrance exams, the authorities can ensure that students are adequately trained and equipped to practice their respective medical systems.
It is important to note that the introduction of separate NEET exams does not undermine the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare. The integration of different medical systems can provide comprehensive and personalized treatment options for patients. However, specialized education and training are necessary to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of each system.
In conclusion, the decision to introduce separate NEET exams for BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, and Sowa-Rigpa under the NCISM regulations of 2023 is a positive step towards recognizing the unique nature of each medical system. This move will ensure that students receive specialized education and training in their chosen field, leading to a more efficient and effective healthcare system. It is a significant development that will contribute to the growth and recognition of traditional Indian medical systems in the country.
Technical Committee for National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Sowa-Rigpa:
The tech panel shall consist of –
(i) Controller of Examinations – Chairperson;
(ii) Nominee from designated agency as Director, National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for SowaRigpa – Member;
(iii) Nominee from designated agency as Chief Co-ordinator, National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Sowa-Rigpa – Member;
(iv) Member, Board of Unani, Siddha and Sowa-Rigpa – Member;
(v) Member, Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Indian System of Medicine – Member;
(vi) Three Experts of Sowa-Rigpa system – Member; and
(vii) Deputy Controller of Examinations – Member Secretary
Terms of reference:
(i) the term of the committee shall be for two successive examinations or re-constitution of the committee by the Commission, whichever is earlier;
(ii) the Committee shall meet as required;
(iii) the Committee can co-opt any expert member as per the requirement and with the approval of the President, Board of Unani, Siddha and Sowa-Rigpa;
(iv) the Committee shall specify the syllabus and develop a ‘blue print’ of the question paper for every examination;
(v) the committee shall prepare the schedule of entire examination events;
(vi) the committee shall prepare the list of chief superintendent of exam centres, National Commission for Indian System of Medicine observers, experts and moderators for question paper setting and evaluators for evaluating answer scripts;
(vii) the Committee shall coordinate with the assigned agency for conducting examination;
(viii) the committee shall prepare information brochure and examination-counselling-admission guidelines; and
(ix) the Committee shall ensure the confidentiality of the matters connected with the examinations.
