Doctors are highly respected in Indian society and are often regarded as a form of God. People firmly believe that when they fall ill, a doctor has the ability to save their life. This faith in the medical profession is deeply rooted in the minds and hearts of people across the country.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, this belief became even more evident. There was hardly anyone who did not experience the importance of doctors and healthcare workers, either directly or indirectly. While the entire world was facing uncertainty and fear, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals stood on the frontlines, risking their own lives to treat patients and save countless lives.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India currently has approximately 13.86 lakh registered doctors, which includes only allopathic doctors. If practitioners from AYUSH, Homeopathy, and other medical systems are included, this number increases further. Despite this large number, India continues to face a significant shortage of doctors.

At present, urban areas have around 13 doctors per 10,000 people, whereas rural areas have only about 3 doctors per 10,000 people. To meet the growing healthcare needs of the population, the WHO estimates that by the year 2030, India will require more than 20 lakh additional doctors.

To pursue postgraduate medical courses such as Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Master of Surgery (MS) in India, a student must hold an MBBS degree from an institution recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC).

Admission to MD/MS courses across the country is conducted through a single national-level entrance examination known as NEET-PG (National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test – Postgraduate). This examination is mandatory for admission to postgraduate degree programs in both government and private medical institutions.

NEET-PG is considered one of the most competitive and challenging examinations in the medical field. Across India, there are approximately 73,000 postgraduate medical seats, including MD, MS, DNB, and PG Diploma seats. In 2025, around 2.35 lakh candidates appeared for the NEET-PG examination. The duration of both MD and MS courses is three years.

During the MD course, students study major subjects such as Pediatrics, General Medicine, Dermatology, Radiology/Radio-Diagnosis, Anaesthesiology, Microbiology, Pathology and Anatomy.

On the other hand, the MS course focuses on surgical disciplines, including General Surgery, Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), and Orthopaedics.

After completing MD or MS, doctors can choose their career path according to their interests and area of specialization. They may open their own private clinic.

They can work as specialists in government or private hospitals, or They can pursue higher super-specialization courses such as DM (after MD) and MCh (after MS).

Additionally, they can work as Assistant Professors in medical colleges. They can build a career in medical research, or They can serve as specialists in international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.

Overall, a career in medicine not only offers respect, stability, and professional growth but also provides a unique opportunity to serve society and make a meaningful and lasting impact on people’s lives.