Srinagar, June 18: The Jammu and Kashmir Medical Students Association (JKMSA) has urged the government to enhance the monthly stipend of medical interns in the Union Territory, stating that the existing remuneration is significantly lower than that being paid in several Central Government institutions and other states.
In a representation addressed to Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo, the association highlighted what it described as a long-pending demand for revision of intern stipends across government medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir.
The association said medical interns perform intensive clinical duties and form an integral component of the healthcare delivery system, but their current stipend has failed to keep pace with rising living expenses and professional responsibilities.
According to the memorandum, JKMSA has sought an increase in the monthly stipend to bring it at par with Central Government norms and requested timely disbursement of stipends across all government medical colleges in the Union Territory.
The association maintained that improving financial support for interns would serve as a salutary step towards boosting morale among young doctors and strengthening the healthcare sector.
JKMSA leaders said a positive response from the government would not only address a longstanding grievance but also acknowledge the invaluable contribution made by medical interns in hospitals and healthcare institutions across Jammu and Kashmir.
The representation has been signed by JKMSA Chairman Dr Wasim Khan, President Dr Imtiyaz Wani and General Secretary Dr Anzer Firdous. [KNT]
