The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to increase the monthly stipends of MBBS and BDS interns, including FMGs. As per the notification issued, the stipend amount will be increased from Rs. 12,300 to Rs. 25,000.
The announcement has been made after agitation from MBBS and MDS residents. The decision will now provide medical interns with “much-needed” financial assistance for their contributions to the healthcare sector.
As per the tweet by CMO Jammu and Kashmir, the Government of Jammu & Kashmir has formally notified the enhancement of the monthly stipend for MBBS/BDS interns, including Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs), from ₹12,300 to ₹25,000, effective October 1, 2026. Recognising the vital contribution of young medical professionals to J&K's healthcare system, the decision provides much-needed financial support while acknowledging their dedication and commitment to patient care.
As per reports, medical interns restarted their strike on October 20, 2026, as the government allegedly failed to fulfil its written promise to increase the stipend amount and the agreed 30-day deadline had also passed. The government agreed to the demands of the interns just two days after the relaunch of the strike. According to reports, the interns are seeking a long-overdue hike in the monthly stipend paid. Currently, students are receiving Rs. 12,300 per month, which has remained unchanged since 2019. Considering the rise in cost of living, accommodations, food, transport and other essentials, the hike is much needed for interns.
Other than Jammu and Kashmir, intern doctors from the Government Medical College Rajouri have also staged a demonstration demanding a hike in their stipend on September 5. According to media reports, a stipend enhancement committee was constituted in 2023, but since then there has been no discussion regarding the stipend.
