Article Today, Hyderabad: Several foreign MBBS graduates, who failed to clear the mandatory Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), are reportedly working as doctors in private and corporate hospitals across Telangana. These individuals, despite not meeting the eligibility criteria to practise medicine in India, are being employed due to low salary expectations. Hospitals are hiring them for as little as Rs.25,000 per month. This alarming situation raises serious concerns about patient safety and the integrity of the healthcare system.
Low FMGE Pass Percentage: The FMGE is a qualifying examination for Indian citizens who have obtained medical degrees abroad. Only those who pass this exam are eligible to register with state medical councils and
practice in India. However, the pass percentage in this exam remains dismally low. Over the past few years, the success rate has fluctuated between 20% and 30%. For instance, in the December 2024 session, nearly 70% of candidates failed. In 2025, of the 44,390 candidates, only 13,149 passed—just 29.62%. These figures highlight the stark contrast between the quality of medical education abroad and the standards required in India.
Why Do So Many Fail the FMGE?
Several factors contribute to the low pass rate. Many foreign medical colleges follow curricula that differ significantly from the Indian system. Inadequate clinical training abroad prevents students from applying theoretical knowledge in practical situations. Furthermore, many of these colleges do not meet the rigorous standards upheld by Indian institutions. The FMGE is considered a tough exam, and many students lack proper guidance and preparation. As a result, hundreds are either abandoning their medical careers or, worse, seeking illegal routes to practise.
Unqualified Practice: A Threat to Public Health
The presence of unqualified individuals in hospitals poses a serious risk to public health. Experts compare the threat to the dangers posed by untrained RMP practitioners. Some of these foreign graduates even display boards with ‘MD’ or other fake designations, misleading the public. Shockingly, a few have invented specialisations that do not even exist in the Indian medical system. Yet, there has been little response from the Telangana State Medical Council, drawing criticism from health experts and the general public alike.
Failure of Oversight and Allegations of Bribery
The regulatory failure is evident. The Telangana Medical Council has not taken firm action to identify and penalise such individuals. There are growing allegations that some officials are accepting bribes to turn a blind eye. This inaction allows the unlawful practice to continue unchecked. People fear that their lives are being put at risk due to the negligence of the system. There is an urgent need for the Health Department to intervene, identify these unqualified practitioners, and take strict legal action.
Public Demands Immediate Action
Citizens and health activists are demanding that the government conduct a statewide audit of all practising doctors in private hospitals. They insist that only those with valid medical registration be allowed to treat patients. The unchecked practice of failed foreign medical graduates is not just unethical—it’s dangerous. For the sake of public safety, the authorities must act now.
