The decision to slash the NEET PG counselling cut-off to 0 percentile for reserved categories marks a major shift in India’s postgraduate medical admission process. It reflects urgency rather than generosity. Authorities acted to prevent thousands of PG medical seats from going vacant. At the same time, they aimed to keep the healthcare training pipeline active.
What Exactly Has Changed
For SC, ST, and OBC candidates, the qualifying percentile for Round 3 of NEET PG counselling now stands at zero. This means candidates no longer need to cross a minimum percentile threshold to enter counselling. For General and EWS categories, the cut-off has also dropped sharply, though not to zero. Importantly, this change affects counselling eligibility only. It does not alter ranks, scores, or merit lists.
Why Authorities Took This Step
A large number of MD, MS, and diploma seats remained vacant after the first two counselling rounds. Many institutions struggled to fill even clinical branches. As a result, training capacity risked going to waste. Medical bodies repeatedly flagged the issue. Eventually, authorities chose flexibility over rigidity. The revised cut-off expands the pool of eligible candidates and improves seat utilisation.
How Counselling Still Maintains Structure
Despite the relaxed cut-off, the counselling process remains structured. Candidates must still register, verify documents, and follow seat-allocation rules. Colleges will continue admissions based on rank order within the eligible pool. Therefore, entry into counselling does not guarantee a seat. Merit still decides outcomes.
Who Benefits the Most
Reserved category candidates who missed earlier cut-offs now gain a second chance. Many candidates with low or borderline scores can re-enter the system. This change also benefits medical colleges, especially in non-metro areas, which often struggle to attract PG candidates. Ultimately, hospitals gain more resident doctors, easing workforce shortages.
What This Does Not Change
This decision does not dilute the NEET PG examination itself. The exam pattern, marking system, and rank generation remain untouched. It also does not set a permanent precedent. Authorities have clarified that this relaxation applies only to the current counselling round to address an exceptional situation.
Concerns and Questions Raised
Some doctors worry about training quality. Others question whether repeated cut-off relaxations signal deeper systemic issues. However, supporters argue that PG training happens under supervision and evaluation. Entry marks alone do not define competence. In this context, the move appears corrective rather than careless.
What Aspirants Should Do Now
Eligible candidates should immediately track counselling schedules and deadlines. They must complete registration and choice filling carefully. Branch preference and college selection matter more than ever. Aspirants should also stay realistic about outcomes and remain flexible with choices.
A Bigger Picture: Healthcare Needs vs Policy Rigidity
India faces a persistent shortage of specialist doctors. Leaving PG seats vacant only deepens that gap. This decision reflects a shift toward practical policymaking. It prioritises healthcare delivery alongside academic standards. Therefore, the move signals adaptation rather than compromise.
Lowering the NEET PG counselling cut-off to 0 percentile for reserved categories opens doors that were closing too early. It offers an opportunity without bypassing the process. For aspirants, it brings renewed hope. For the system, it ensures continuity. In the long run, this balance may prove essential for India’s medical education and healthcare strength.
