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Concerns Rise as Resident Doctors Abandon Prestigious Medical Programs

A troubling trend has emerged as numerous resident doctors abandon their positions at prestigious medical institutions like AIIMS and JIPMER. Despite the rigorous selection process, factors such as excessive stress, long hours, and a toxic work culture are driving these departures. Recent RTI findings reveal a slight decrease in resignations, yet the issue persists across various departments and newer AIIMS institutes. In response, the United Doctors Front has filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Supreme Court, advocating for reforms to improve working conditions and mental health support for doctors. This article delves into the statistics, reasons behind the trend, and the urgent need for change.
By Ambika Singh Nov 10, 2026, 12:22 IST

Alarming Trend of Doctor Departures



Recent findings from the Right to Information (RTI) Act have highlighted a troubling trend: many resident doctors are leaving their positions at esteemed medical institutions, despite having earned their spots through rigorous competition.


For many aspiring doctors, obtaining a postgraduate or super-specialty seat at renowned institutions like AIIMS or JIPMER is a significant achievement following the highly competitive NEET-PG examination. However, a worrying pattern has emerged where junior resident doctors are exiting their programs prematurely.


According to RTI data, a considerable number of resident doctors are choosing to resign. Applications submitted by a member of the 'United Doctors Front' reveal that factors such as excessive workplace stress, extended duty hours, and a detrimental work culture are prompting these departures.


Statistics from AIIMS and JIPMER

Data acquired through RTI indicates a slight reduction in the number of doctors leaving their positions compared to previous years, yet the trend remains concerning. In 2025, 34 junior resident doctors at AIIMS Delhi left their programs, down from 60 in 2024. Additionally, new admissions fell from 324 in 2024 to 267 in 2025.


Examining departmental data reveals that the Department of Anesthesiology experienced the highest attrition, with 7 doctors resigning. The Department of Ophthalmology followed with 6 departures, while the Departments of Surgery and Pathology each recorded 3 exits. At JIPMER, 44 doctors from the January and July 2025 batches resigned, marking a 27% decrease from the 60 resignations in 2024, yet critical departments like Anesthesia and Surgery continued to see resignations.


Similar Issues at Newer AIIMS Institutes

This trend is not limited to Delhi or Puducherry; other states are witnessing similar issues. In 2025, AIIMS Rishikesh reported 30 dropouts from postgraduate and super-specialty programs. AIIMS Raipur saw 19 doctors leave, while AIIMS Kalyani recorded 15 departures, with an additional 11 students from the 2026 batch also vacating their seats. Instances of resignations have also been noted at AIIMS Patna and AIIMS Gorakhpur.


Reasons Behind Doctor Departures

Dr. Lakshya Mittal, President of the United Doctors Front, attributes the dropout rate to the demanding work schedule, which can require up to 36 consecutive hours without sufficient rest, adversely affecting doctors' physical and mental health. Other significant factors include mental harassment from senior staff, poor communication, and a toxic work environment. Additionally, there is a lack of a comprehensive counseling system for doctors facing mental health challenges, sleep deprivation, or depression. In response to an RTI inquiry, AIIMS Delhi confirmed that it does not maintain a consolidated record of psychiatric support provided to resident doctors.


Legal Action for Reform

In light of these serious concerns, the United Doctors Front has initiated a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court. The doctors' association is advocating for clearly defined working hours for resident doctors, the establishment of an independent grievance redressal system in medical institutions, and the creation of a confidential mental health support mechanism, alongside calls for institutional accountability.


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