In a significant move aimed at fortifying its public healthcare system, the Punjab government has unveiled a new bond policy for students enrolling in MBBS and BDS courses at state-run medical and dental colleges. This strategic initiative directly confronts the long-standing and critical shortage of doctors within government health institutions, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Effective from the academic session 2025-2026, the policy mandates that students admitted to these government institutes will either commit to serving in state healthcare facilities for a period of two years upon completion of their studies or face a substantial bond penalty of ₹20 lakh. For students admitted under the All-India quota, the mandatory service period is one year. The government’s rationale behind this policy is rooted in the substantial investment made by the state, utilizing taxpayer funds, to subsidize medical education. It is seen as a mechanism to ensure that the state reaps a return on this investment, leveraging the skills of newly qualified medical professionals to address the pressing healthcare needs of its populace. Currently, over 50% of the 3,847 sanctioned doctor posts in government hospitals remain vacant, a stark reality that severely impacts healthcare accessibility and quality, especially in remote regions. For years, a significant number of medical graduates have opted for private practice or international opportunities, exacerbating this disparity and creating a glaring urban-rural healthcare divide. This bond policy, while inherently coercive, is presented as a responsible attempt to correct this imbalance and ensure equitable healthcare delivery across the state. However, the policy has not been without its critics. Student groups and medical associations have expressed reservations, arguing that it amounts to “forced labour” and places undue burden on aspiring doctors, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds. They highlight that while the policy aims to fill vacancies, the stipends offered for bond service are significantly lower than market rates, leading to accusations of using graduates as “cheap labour.” Furthermore, students point out that this mandatory service extends the already lengthy and arduous medical education journey, potentially delaying their pursuit of postgraduate specializations. The government, on its part, acknowledges these concerns implicitly by emphasizing the need for robust implementation, timely postings, and adequate support for young graduates during their service period. The policy is not unique to Punjab; similar bond systems exist in several other Indian states and central institutions, reflecting a broader national challenge in public health workforce management. As Punjab navigates this bold step, the success of the policy will ultimately hinge on its ability to strike a balance between compelling service and providing a supportive, equitable environment for its future doctors, ensuring that the bond serves as a bridge to comprehensive public healthcare rather than a barrier to aspirations. The ongoing dialogue between the government and medical students will be crucial in refining the implementation and addressing legitimate concerns to ensure a sustainable and effective solution to the doctor shortage
