New Delhi, Sept 8, 2025 – The Central Government has proposed an ambitious new integrated MBBS–BAMS course at JIPMER, Puducherry. This degree program, designed to merge modern medicine (MBBS) with Ayurvedic medicine (BAMS), will span more than five years and include a one-year internship, ultimately awarding graduates with dual degrees in MBBS and BAMS.
The syllabus for the first phase has already been prepared, following the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) model outlined by the National Medical Commission (NMC). The proposal, spearheaded by the Auroville Foundation and announced by Union Minister of State for Health and AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, was first revealed on May 27, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Proposed Course:
- Duration: 5+ years, including a mandatory 1-year internship.
- Degree Awarded: Dual recognition of MBBS and BAMS.
- Curriculum Base: Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME).
- Institutions Involved: Proposed at JIPMER Puducherry and satellite centres under the Auroville Foundation.
Regulatory Concerns
However, the move has sparked significant controversy. Both the NMC (National Medical Commission) and the NCISM (National Commission for Indian System of Medicine)—the statutory bodies responsible for regulating modern and traditional medical education—were reportedly not consulted in the drafting of this integrated program.
Medical professionals and associations have expressed serious concerns. The Indian Medical Association (IMA), representing over 4 lakh practitioners, has strongly opposed the integration, calling it an “unscientific mixing of different systems of medicine.” They have demanded immediate withdrawal of the proposal, citing risks to medical education quality and patient safety.
RTI Revelations & Transparency Issues
The controversy deepened when Dr. K.V. Babu, a Kerala-based activist, filed an RTI seeking details of the course. According to the RTI response, there is no legal provision under Indian law to award both MBBS and BAMS degrees together. Despite this, government files suggest strong backing for the proposal at the highest policy levels, including consultations with NITI Aayog’s Dr. V.K. Paul and AYUSH Secretary Dr. Rajesh Kotecha.
Furthermore, JIPMER declined to release course details despite repeated queries, adding to concerns about lack of transparency.
✅ In summary:
The integrated MBBS–BAMS course aims to create doctors proficient in both allopathic and Ayurvedic medicine, with a 5-year curriculum + internship. While the initiative is being promoted as innovative, it has faced sharp opposition from medical regulatory bodies and associations, who warn against merging distinct systems without scientific validation or legal backing.
Source:- https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Sep/08/integrated-bams-mbbs-course-to-be-of-over-5-yrs
