Jammu-Based Microbiologist to Represent Border Region Concerns at Apex Medical Body
Srinagar: In a significant development for the medical community of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Sandeep Dogra, a prominent microbiologist and member of the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Council, has been appointed as a part-time member of the National Medical Commission (NMC) — India’s apex regulatory body for medical education and practice.
Dr. Dogra currently serves as Professor and Head of the Postgraduate Department of Microbiology at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Jammu. With an extensive academic and professional background, his inclusion in the NMC is being seen as a step toward broader regional representation in national healthcare policymaking.
Rich Academic and Research Background
Dr. Dogra earned his MBBS from the University of Jammu and went on to complete an MD in Microbiology from R.T.M. Nagpur University in 2005. In 2015, he was awarded the prestigious FAIMER Fellowship by the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research, USA.
His academic journey at GMC Jammu has seen him rise through the ranks from Lecturer to Professor and Head of Department as of July 2023. Prior to this, he also served as Senior Demonstrator and Lecturer at ASC College of Medical Sciences, Sidhra, and as Senior Research Fellow and Junior Resident at Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, Maharashtra.
Award-Winning Career and Recognition
Dr. Dogra’s contributions to medical science and education have earned him several accolades, including:
- FAIMER Fellowship (2015)
- Membership of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS)
- J&K Young Scientist Award, presented by former Vice President of India, Shri M. H. Ansari
- COVID-19 Warrior recognition by Rotary Club of Jammu (2020)
- Multiple scientific presentation awards at MICROCON and state-level microbiology conferences
Focus on Regional Issues, NEET, FMG Demands, and Faculty Eligibility
Speaking to Medical Dialogues, Dr. Dogra emphasized the importance of including voices from border regions like Jammu and Kashmir in national decision-making bodies.
“It is important that in an apex body like this, there are representatives from all parts of the country, especially from border regions,” he said.
He further stated that he would raise concerns related to the NEET examination, Foreign Medical Graduates (FMG) demands, and faculty eligibility norms at the national level. “I am hopeful there will be meaningful dialogues among the authorities. I’m glad to represent the views and needs of medical professionals from my part of the country,” he added.
Dr. Dogra’s appointment is expected to bring focused attention to the unique healthcare challenges and policy gaps affecting Jammu & Kashmir, especially in medical education, infrastructure, and representation.
