CM Omar Abdullah Approves Stipend Hike for MBBS, BDS Interns; Formal Order Expected Tomorrow

Srinagar, Oct 20: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has approved the enhancement of monthly stipends for MBBS and BDS interns in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Health and Medical Education Department directed to issue the necessary order immediately, top government sources said.

According to sources, the Chief Minister has cleared the file regarding the long-pending revision of stipends, which will increase the monthly remuneration of medical and dental interns from the existing Rs 12,300 to Rs 25,000.

The formal order was expected to be issued on Tuesday but could not be released due to the holiday. The department is now expected to issue the necessary order on Wednesday, October 21.

The decision comes amid sustained protests by MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir, who have been demanding an increase in their monthly stipend to Rs 30,000.

The interns had launched an indefinite strike on August 31, stating that their stipend had remained unchanged for nearly seven years despite rising living costs and the demands of hospital duties.