Gujarat celebrates National Doctors Day on July 1. This day is a tribute to doctors for their hard work and dedication. In Gujarat, there is a special focus on empowering women in the medical field. The state government runs a scheme called the Mukhyamantri Kanya Kelavni Nidhi (MKKN) aimed at supporting girls who wish to pursue careers in medicine.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has been vocal about the importance of women’s empowerment in education and career development. He believes that educated women can play a crucial role in the state’s development. The MKKN scheme was launched to ensure that financial difficulties do not stop bright girls from getting medical education.
In the 2024-25 academic year, the government plans to provide financial aid to over 5,000 female students in the medical field. This aid totals ₹162.69 crore, showing a strong commitment to women’s education in medicine. Since the launch of the MKKN scheme in 2017-18, 25,768 girls have received ₹772 crore in financial assistance to help them become doctors.
The scheme offers support to students from families with an annual income of up to ₹6 lakh. These students receive help with tuition fees, making it easier for them to gain admission to medical colleges based on their NEET scores. The MKKN scheme does not consider the community background of the applicants, ensuring inclusivity.
One success story is that of Pratibha Chouhan from Jamnagar. After completing her MBBS at Narendra Modi Medical College in Ahmedabad, she expressed gratitude for the MKKN scheme. She noted that private medical colleges often have high fees, which can be a barrier for students from middle-class families.
Pratibha learned about the MKKN scheme through senior doctors and applied for assistance. She received a total of ₹25.48 lakh during her MBBS education, which allowed her to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. Now, she is preparing for her postgraduate studies, thankful for the support from the Gujarat government.
The MKKN scheme has not only helped Pratibha but also many other ambitious students in Gujarat. The government aims to educate and empower girls, making them capable contributors to the country’s healthcare system. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance women’s roles in various sectors, especially in healthcare.
In conclusion, as Gujarat observes National Doctors Day, it also celebrates the achievements of women in medicine. The MKKN scheme represents a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for aspiring female doctors. The government’s efforts are paving the way for a brighter future for women in the medical field, ensuring they can fulfill their dreams without financial hindrance.
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