Srinagar, 25 Nov: The Meteorological Department, J&K on Monday predicted light snow and rains in Jammu and Kashmir from November 30 to December 1, bringing an end to the long dry spell in the region.

Director Meteorological Department J&K, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said that a western disturbance is likely to affect the region from November 30 evening to December 1, resulting in light snow and rains.

“We are expecting light snow and rains in Jammu and Kashmir from November 30 evening to December 1,” said Mukhtar Ahmad. “This will bring an end to the long dry spell in the region and provide relief to the people.” he further said.

The Meteorological Department has predicted light snow in the higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley, including Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam, while the plains are expected to receive light rains.

The Meteorological Department has advised people to take necessary precautions during the period of inclement weather.

Doctors raise concern over decline in open merit quota for NEET PG aspirants in J&K

Warn excessive reservation can harm healthcare, increase doctor-patient conflicts; seek review of reservation policies

Srinagar, Nov 25 (KNO): Doctors in Jammu and Kashmir have expressed concern over the sharp decline in the open merit quota for NEET PG (MD/MS) candidates. The percentage has dropped from 75% to just 38% over the past five years, which has raised fears of long-term consequences for the healthcare sector.

Several doctors who spoke to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) warned that reducing the open merit quota to 38.5% could have serious repercussions and could ultimately lead to the decline of the healthcare system in the region.

“What is the point of keeping reserved seats in NEET PG (MD/MS) if the individual is already financially independent as a doctor? This doesn’t justify the policy and reflects poorly on the healthcare system in the country,” said Dr Saif, a local physician. “MD/MS seats should be open to all candidates.”

He questioned the fairness of reserving seats for individuals who already benefited from reservations during their undergraduate education. “If a student has received a reservation for an undergraduate course and is now on equal footing with other general category students, why should they be eligible for reserved seats in PG courses?” he asked.

Another doctor said, “Out of 293 MD/MS seats, 113 are reserved for open merit doctors, which undermines merit and hard work. The competition should be equal, as every student receives the same education during the MBBS course, making such reservations unfair.”

Doctors said that the NEET PG 2024 open merit quota has fallen from 75% in 2019 to under 40%. “If MBBS education doesn’t uplift a candidate, what will? This is damaging our premier medical institutions,” one doctor said.

He said that excessive reservation is leading to the decline of healthcare in the region. “Undeserving candidates are getting MBBS seats, completing MD/MS, becoming consultants, and even securing promotions out of turn—all thanks to the reservation system,” he added.

Another doctor expressed concern over the alarming decrease in open merit seats, saying, “The open merit seats for NEET PG admissions have been slashed from 75% in 2019 to a mere 38.5% in 2024. Moreover, 50% of seats are already occupied by the All India Quota. What’s left for open merit candidates?”

He criticised the situation, saying that a candidate with an All India rank of 91,000 might secure a branch that a 350-rank student from J&K cannot, leading to unfair outcomes and a decline in the quality of healthcare.

“Competent doctors should be in leadership positions. But when reservation-based selections lead to unqualified individuals becoming professors or receiving out-of-turn promotions, it harms the entire sector,” the doctor added.

The doctors also raised concerns over the application of the Economic Weaker Section (EWS) category, questioning how individuals earning over one lakh per month can qualify for selection as professors or associate professors in the EWS category.

“There should be no compromise when it comes to healthcare. Doctors coming in through reservation schemes often lack the necessary skills, which will have long-term negative effects on the health sector and the legacy of our medical institutions,” they added.

The doctors have called on the government to review the reservation policy, urging that only those who genuinely need it should benefit. They suggested that candidates who gain UG seats through reservation but fail to secure a PG seat in open merit should consider joining as medical officers in underserved areas, based on their reservation benefits.

The medical professionals have appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health Minister Sakina Itoo to urgently address their concerns—(KNO)

National Child Development Council Alumni Secure Prestigious Teaching Positions

The National Child Development Council (NCDC) has proudly announced the successful placement of four of its alumni in renowned educational institutions.

According to official figures, Thabsy Rahman of the 43rd Batch, Remya R G of the 68th Batch, Farhath B A of the 61st Batch, and Anila E Josh of the 71st Batch have all secured esteemed teaching roles across various educational institutions.

A statement from the NCDC highlighted that these individuals underwent extensive training under the expert guidance of Evaluator Incharges of NCDC Montessori Teacher Training Courses, including Shakkila Wahab, Sheeba P K, and Bindu S.

The National Child Development Council, an autonomous organization focused on the welfare of women and children, continues to play a pivotal role in providing high-quality education across India.

A spokesperson for the NCDC extended heartfelt congratulations to all four alumni for their exceptional achievements and wished them continued success in their careers.

For more information on NCDC’s courses, and programs, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official website at ncdconline.org/courses.