New Delhi : In a landmark move to enhance transparency and quality in medical education, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has released a draft framework for the accreditation and ranking of all medical colleges regulated by it. For the first time, the process will be conducted through an independent third-party agency, signaling a shift towards data-driven institutional evaluation.
11 Criteria, 78 Parameters in Revised Framework
The Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB), a body under NMC, has compiled the draft framework comprising 11 broad criteria and 78 assessment parameters. This is a revision from the previous 2023 draft developed in partnership with the Quality Council of India (QCI), which had listed 92 parameters.
Notably, the latest draft has dropped certain parameters that were earlier proposed — including stipends paid to interns and residents and the proportion of regular professors in total faculty.
Revised Focus on Research Metrics
The ‘Research Output and Impact’ criterion continues to play a key role in the framework, but references to publication in high-quartile journals have been removed. The focus now lies on:
- Number of research papers in indexed journals
- Citation counts
- Journal impact factors
- Ongoing/completed funded research projects
- Patents filed or granted
Feedback Sought from Stakeholders
NMC Chairman Dr. B.N. Gangadhar emphasized that this is a draft document and the commission is open to suggestions from stakeholders. “This is the first time that medical colleges will be assessed based on set parameters and rated. The aim is to bring in accountability and adherence to high standards,” he said.
Background and Objective
The accreditation exercise is part of NMC’s broader strategy to ensure transparency, promote academic excellence, and streamline medical education in India. The MoU signed with QCI in 2023 was aimed at creating a reliable, third-party rating mechanism.
The MARB, which oversees inspections for granting and renewing permissions for medical institutions and increasing seat capacities, will oversee the rating process in coordination with the selected agency.
