India’s healthcare sector has seen significant developments ranging from decisions in medical education policy to concerns over patient safety in aesthetic practices. Here’s a detailed look at the top health news updates shared on March 25, 2026.

Supreme Court Upholds NEET PG Cutoff Reduction

The Indian government recently defended its decision to substantially reduce the NEET PG qualifying cutoff before the Supreme Court. This move followed a thorough analysis of data and was designed to expand the pool of eligible candidates without undermining merit. Admissions will still be strictly rank-based under the All India Quota system.

In an affidavit prepared with inputs from the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences, the government clarified that the revised cutoff increases the number of eligible candidates from approximately 1.28 lakh to over 2.24 lakh. The threshold percentile has been lowered across categories, addressing weak seat occupation and ensuring access to medical education for a broader range of aspirants.

GGSIPU Implements Common Entrance Test for Therapy Courses

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) announced major changes to its admission process for the Bachelor of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Occupational Therapy programs starting in the 2026-27 session. Admissions will no longer rely on the NEET UG score as previously mandated. Instead, a Common Entrance Test (CET) will be conducted by the university to manage the admission process.

This policy change follows guidance from the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professionals, which deferred the necessity of NEET eligibility for admissions to these courses. The move aims to streamline admissions while adhering to new standards set for allied health education.

Punjab and Haryana High Court Overturns MBBS Students' Expulsion

In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court quashed the expulsion of two MBBS students from Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences. The expulsion stemmed from allegations of exam malpractice.

Justice Kuldeep Tiwari set aside the university’s actions, citing violations of natural justice. The ruling emphasized that the university failed to provide the accused students fair opportunities to defend themselves before imposing punitive measures. This decision mirrors an earlier similar judgment, reinforcing the importance of transparency and fairness in academic disciplinary actions.

Call for Stricter Regulations in Aesthetic and Hair Transplant Procedures

Medical experts have raised concerns regarding the unsafe practices in aesthetic and hair transplant procedures. At a joint press conference, the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL) and the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSI) stressed the need for stricter regulatory measures.

The warning comes in light of certain unqualified practitioners performing such procedures, often without specialized training in skin biology and complication management. Further controversy arose after the Dental Council of India permitted MDS oral and maxillofacial surgeons to perform some cosmetic procedures traditionally under the purview of dermatologists and plastic surgeons. The experts emphasized the importance of oversight by the National Medical Commission to maintain safety standards.

Practical Implications of These Developments

• For NEET PG Aspirants: Students preparing for NEET PG can expect a more competitive environment due to the expansion of the eligibility pool. While it broadens opportunities, the merit-based ranking system remains intact.
• Therapy Course Applicants at GGSIPU: Prospective students enrolling in physiotherapy or occupational therapy programs must appear for the new CET conducted by GGSIPU. Familiarizing themselves with this new entrance test structure will be essential.
• Medical Universities Nationwide: Higher educational institutions must uphold principles of justice in disciplinary matters to avoid legal setbacks, as highlighted by the recent High Court ruling.
• Practitioners of Aesthetic Medicine: Unqualified individuals performing invasive procedures could face greater scrutiny, urging patients to verify the credentials of their healthcare providers.

Conclusion

These updates highlight pivotal changes in India’s medical and healthcare landscape. From refining admission processes to ensuring patient safety in aesthetic treatments, the recent decisions and rulings emphasize the need for rigorous standards and equitable policies. As the country continues to streamline healthcare education and practices, staying informed will be crucial for stakeholders, students, and practitioners alike.