New leave guidelines announced for postgraduate medical trainees: Key details

The NBEMS leave rules are designed to provide a framework for managing leave for trainees enrolled in postgraduate medical programmes under NBEMS.

In Short

• NBEMS introduces new leave guidelines for medical trainees
• Maternity leave as per government policies, no Child Care Leave
• 30 days of eligible leave per year for trainees

The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS, headquartered in New Delhi, has introduced a comprehensive set of leave guidelines for postgraduate medical trainees. These rules aim to streamline the leave management process for trainees enrolled in NBEMS-accredited institutions while ensuring they meet mandatory training requirements.

According to the NBEMS, every postgraduate training programme under its purview requires a specified period of mandatory training. Trainees must complete this training within the stipulated timeframe to qualify for the Exit Examination.

Any delay in completing the program could jeopardise their eligibility to appear for the final assessment.

LEAVE ENTITLEMENT FOR TRAINEES

NBEMS trainees are entitled to 30 days of leave per year, referred to as "eligible leave." This allowance ensures that trainees can balance personal responsibilities without compromising their training.

Additionally, trainees can take a weekly or duty off during their programme. However, if a trainee is on leave, the weekly off will count as part of the total leave taken.

MATERNITY LEAVE GUIDELINES

Female trainees are entitled to maternity leave as per the prevailing policies of the Central or State Government applicable to the training institution.

However, NBEMS does not allow an extension of maternity leave beyond the permitted duration, nor does it provide for Child Care Leave (CCL) under its training programmes.

The guidelines explicitly prohibit trainees from taking study leave, engaging in any form of employment, or enrolling in other academic courses during their leave period.

IMPLICATIONS OF EXCESS LEAVE

Trainees who exceed the allotted 30 days of leave per year will face an extension of their training period. The duration of this extension will be equivalent to the extra leave taken.

NBEMS emphasises that such an extension cannot be adjusted by working overtime or on holidays.

This structured leave policy underscores NBEMS's commitment to maintaining the quality and consistency of postgraduate medical training.

Trainees are encouraged to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the timely completion of their programmes.