Exploring the Dilemma: Is the Indian Government Wasting Funds on IITians and AIIMS Doctors Who Migrate?
The question of whether the Indian government is wasteful in funding its medical professionals, especially those from prestigious institutions like IIT and AIIMS, has long been the subject of debate. Many argue that with a significant number of these graduates choosing to work abroad and not return to serve their country, there must be inherent inefficiencies in the system. This article aims to explore this issue in depth, examining the use of funds, the role of infrastructure, and the broader economic benefits of global workforce mobility.
Understanding the Context and Background
Several years ago, I encountered this dilemma when reading a thoughtful response by Shyam Krishnan, titled 'Why do doctors from government colleges leave India after graduating.' The author posited that investing in the health infrastructure of the country is a valuable use of resources, as these facilities are used by the public and provide essential healthcare services. However, there are other perspectives suggesting that funding these educational institutions might be seen as wasteful if a significant portion of the graduates do not return to practice in India.
The Role of Infrastructure in Medical Education and Practice
The funding that goes into training medical professionals is not just about the tuition fees but also about creating and maintaining the necessary infrastructure. This infrastructure includes medical colleges, hospitals, and the support systems that enable doctors to provide quality healthcare to the public. A Medical College is actively serving the society, as its services are used by the general public, and students start contributing back to society during their internships.
Moreover, medical students often find themselves overworked, underrated, and exploited while fulfilling their internship obligations. If a student decides to move to a different country after qualifying and meeting the standards set by that country, who are we to prevent them from doing so? It's important to consider that many government medical colleges have bond policies requiring doctors to serve for a certain period before they can practice abroad. This is a condition that is rarely seen in other fields, such as engineering or IT, where there is no such requirement.
Economic and Social Perspectives
At the macro level, it's crucial to recognize the broader economic and social benefits of global workforce mobility. Many medical graduates contribute to the healthcare systems of other countries, thereby indirectly supporting the Indian economy through the remittances they send back. Additionally, many non-medical professionals, such as engineers, IT professionals, and teachers, also work abroad, contributing to the global economy and creating resources that can be reinvested into India.
Internationally educated professionals from India bring unique skills and perspectives to their new countries, often leading to innovative practices and solutions that benefit both their home and host countries. This global exchange is a complex issue, and one cannot solely blame medical professionals for not returning home.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective
Ultimately, the decision of doctors to work abroad is a reflection of their dreams, ambitions, and circumstances. While it's understandable to have concerns about the inefficiencies in the system, it's also important to recognize the positive contributions made by these professionals to the global health landscape. Furthermore, it's not fair to blame only medical professionals for the challenges faced in India's healthcare system; education and professional development create opportunities, and people often pursue these opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The younger generation of aspirational professionals is increasingly ambivalent about the traditional expectations placed upon them. Age is not the determining factor; with each passing year, the age at which people begin to actively contribute to society is declining. By embracing the benefits of global workforce mobility, professionals can achieve their ambitions while contributing to the economic and social progress of both their home and host countries.
In conclusion, while the question of whether the government is wasting funds on IITians and AIIMS doctors is complex, it's essential to consider the broader context and benefits of such a globalized workforce.