NEET: The Compulsory Entrance Exam for Admission to BAMS and BHMS at Government Colleges in India
Since 2018, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) has become a mandatory requirement for all Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) and Bachelor of Homoeopathy and Nosology Materia Medica (BHMS) courses offered by government colleges in India. This article provides detailed information on the changes and implications for aspirants looking to join these medical courses.
Historical Context and Changes
Before 2018, different states in India had their own entrance exams for BAMS and BHMS courses. For instance, Uttar Pradesh had the Uttar Pradesh Combined Postgraduate Entrance Test (UPCPAT) and Uttarakhand had the Uttarakhand AYUSH Postgraduate Medical Entrance Test (UAPMT). Additionally, various universities had their own registration methods.
Starting from 2018, the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) is now the sole entrance examination for admission into BAMS, BHMS, and other medical courses in government colleges across India. This standardized test ensures a fair and unbiased selection process for aspirants.
Provincial Variations and Local Information
Central and state governments often have their own govt. colleges teaching Ayurveda, Unani, Homoeopathy, etc., as approved by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education). The qualifying standards for these institutions vary from place to place. It is important for applicants to seek information from nearby colleges as the criteria and procedures might differ.
New Developments
There has been a significant move towards a more unified approach in medical entrance exams. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that a common entrance examination might be introduced for all medical fields. If this plan comes into effect, the NEET will be extended to cover all medical disciplines.
For instance, in Madhya Pradesh, the entrance test for Ayurveda, Unani, Homoeopathy, and other traditional medical courses is known as the Pre Ayurved Homoeopathy Unani Naturopathy Yoga Test (PAHUNT). In additional, Madhya Pradesh has its own version called MPPAHUNT.
Conclusion and Recommendations
As of 2018, NEET has become the compulsory entrance exam for admission to BAMS and BHMS in government colleges across India. It is essential for aspirants to prepare thoroughly for the NEET to secure a seat in their preferred medical courses. Staying informed about the latest developments, such as the potential for a common entrance test, can also be beneficial.
For detailed and up-to-date information, applicants should check with the specific colleges or relevant educational boards in their region. The NEET syllabus and practice resources are widely available online, ensuring that aspirants have ample support to excel in the exam.