Kerala Health Ministry Mandates 50% Merit Quota for Pharm D Programs

State Enforces Merit Reservations Amid Private College Pushback

The Kerala government is maintaining its position on a new admission policy for Pharm D (Doctor of Pharmacy) courses starting this academic year. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan announced that the state will strictly implement a 50% merit-based quota for all institutions offering the program. This policy intends to prevent qualified students from being excluded due to the financial barriers inherent in private management fees.

Legal Friction and Management Demands

The Kerala State Self Financing Pharmacy College Management Association has challenged this directive by filing a petition in the High Court. The association seeks to retain full control over its seating capacity, allowing for independent admissions across all Pharm D slots. During recent negotiations with the Health Minister, association representatives formally repeated their demand for total autonomy over student intake.

Government Concessions on Vacant Seats

While the administration refuses to back down on the initial merit reservation, a potential compromise regarding unoccupied seats has surfaced. Minister Muraleedharan indicated that the government is evaluating a specific request from the management group:

• The state may allow the transfer of merit-category seats to the management quota if they remain unfilled following the standard admission cycle.

This provision would ensure colleges do not suffer from empty seats while the primary goal of affordable education for high-performing students remains the priority.

Source: The Hindu — News