The Maharashtra government has eliminated the mandatory one-year service bond for MBBS graduates. This rule previously required doctors to serve in public health facilities after graduation. The change applies to students from government-aided municipal and private medical colleges.
Bond Service Ends
The decision, announced July 23, excuses graduates not yet allotted a bond service post. Those already serving their bond must complete it. The state cited a mismatch between increasing graduate numbers and limited post-bond service positions.
This shortage caused delays. Graduates faced hurdles entering postgraduate medical programs. The government acknowledged that many pursued bond service primarily for PG admission eligibility. It also noted recent graduates may lack experience for emergency services.
Policy Review and Implementation
The Public Health Department proposed a policy review on July 9, 2025. This followed discussions with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The state will stop issuing new bond postings immediately. The online allotment portal has closed.
Doctors' Reaction and Future Needs
The Maharashtra Association for Resident Doctors (MARD) welcomed the move. They called it progressive and long overdue. MARD stated the change will speed up service allotment. It will also remove barriers to postgraduate studies and reduce administrative burdens.
However, MARD urged the government to boost healthcare infrastructure. They warned that increasing MBBS seats without parallel investment in hospitals and facilities could harm education and patient care.
MARD also noted that doctors who paid penalties to avoid the bond service will not receive refunds. The cancellation does not include retroactive compensation for past payments.
