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Who is Dr. Abhijat Sheth? The New NMC Chief Amidst Medical Education Reforms

The Indian government has appointed Dr. Abhijat Sheth as the new Chairperson of the National Medical Commission (NMC), replacing Dr. B.N. Gangadhar. This critical leadership change comes during an ongoing corruption investigation involving medical education regulators. Here’s what aspirants preparing for UPSC, SSC, PSC, and medical entrance exams need to know.

Who is Dr. Abhijat Sheth, the New NMC Chief?
Dr. Sheth, currently the President of the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), oversees major exams like NEET-PG. His appointment aims to restore credibility to the NMC, which regulates medical education standards, college approvals, and ethics.

Key Points About His Appointment:
Replacement: Takes over from Dr. Gangadhar, who resigned in 2024 but stayed temporarily.
Dual Role: Will continue leading NBEMS until NEET-PG 2025 concludes in August.
Challenges Ahead: Must address corruption allegations and improve transparency in medical college inspections.

Why Was This Leadership Change Necessary?
The NMC’s integrity came under scrutiny after a CBI probe exposed:
Bribery scams involving fake inspections.
Falsified records (ghost faculty, patients) in private medical colleges.
34 accused, including ex-UGC chairman Dr. D.P. Singh and NMC officials.
Dr. Sheth’s clean track record and experience in medical examinations make him a strategic choice to rebuild trust in the system.

Sample Q&A for Competitive Exams
Q: Who replaced Dr. B.N. Gangadhar as NMC Chairperson in 2025?
A: Dr. Abhijat Sheth.
Q: Which body conducts NEET-PG examinations in India?
A: National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS).
Q: What major issue prompted the NMC leadership change?
A: Corruption probe involving bribery and fake inspections in medical colleges.
Q: Name one key challenge for Dr. Sheth as NMC Chief.
A: Ensuring transparency in medical college approvals.
Q: How long will Dr. Sheth simultaneously lead NBEMS and NMC?
A: Until NEET-PG 2025 concludes (August 2025).

Why is This Important for Exams?
UPSC/SSC/PSC: Questions on regulatory bodies (NMC, NBEMS) and recent appointments.
Medical Entrances (NEET/NIFT): Awareness of education reforms and ethical practices.
Current Affairs: Corruption probes and governance are recurring themes in competitive exams.