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Jammu and Kashmir Boosts MBBS Internship Stipend to ₹25,000

The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced a substantial increase in the monthly stipend for MBBS and BDS interns, raising it from ₹12,300 to ₹25,000. This decision follows protests by medical interns advocating for better compensation. The increase, effective from October 1, 2026, also extends to Foreign Medical Graduates. Other states, including Uttar Pradesh, have similarly raised stipends for medical interns, reflecting a growing recognition of their contributions. This article explores the implications of these changes and the ongoing efforts of medical interns across India.
By Ambika Singh Oct 22, 2026, 15:01 IST

Increased Stipend for MBBS and BDS Interns



MBBS Internship Stipend 2026: Medical students completing their MBBS internships have received positive news as the Jammu and Kashmir government has raised the monthly stipend for MBBS and BDS interns to ₹25,000. This is a significant increase from the previous stipend of ₹12,300, marking an enhancement of ₹12,700. Additionally, this increase will also apply to Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs). Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced this change following protests from medical interns. It's important to note that other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab, have also raised their stipends for medical interns in recent years. This raises the question of how stipends for MBBS interns compare across various states and where the most substantial increases have occurred.


Details of the Stipend Increase

Stipend Increase Announcement:


In response to ongoing protests by medical interns, the Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to enhance their monthly stipend. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shared this update on social media, revealing that the stipend for MBBS and BDS interns in the Union Territory will rise from ₹12,300 to ₹25,000. This adjustment will also benefit Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs), with the new rates taking effect from October 1, 2026. Eligible interns will receive their stipends based on this revised amount starting in October.


Significant Financial Impact

Monthly Increase of ₹12,700:


The Jammu and Kashmir government's decision results in a ₹12,700 increase in the monthly stipend for medical interns. Previously, interns received ₹12,300, but with the new rate, they will now earn ₹25,000. This change represents a remarkable increase of approximately 103.3%, effectively doubling their stipend. Over a year, an eligible intern could earn ₹3 lakh at the new rate, compared to ₹1,47,600 under the old stipend. The actual amount received will depend on individual eligibility and internship duration.


Background of the Protests

Reasons Behind the Strike:


Medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir had been advocating for a stipend increase for some time. They initiated a strike in September 2026 to push for this demand, arguing that their monthly stipend was insufficient. During the protests, the government requested the interns to suspend their strike on September 8, promising to consider their demands. However, as no decision was made regarding the stipend increase, the interns continued their protests. After resuming their strike, the government announced the stipend increase the following day.


Similar Increases in Other States

Uttar Pradesh's Stipend Increase:


Before Jammu and Kashmir's announcement, the Uttar Pradesh government had also raised the stipends for medical interns. On August 25, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet approved an increase in the monthly stipends for MBBS and BDS interns from ₹12,000 to ₹25,000, marking a ₹13,000 increase. This change represents an approximate 108.3% increase and is expected to benefit around 3,928 medical and dental interns in the state.


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