Allied Healthcare (GAHC)

NEET UG Counselling 2026: MCC Round 2 registration commences today at mcc.nic.in, check eligibility and dates

The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has commenced the registration and choice-filling window for NEET UG Counselling 2026 Round 2 today, September 3. Candidates who have qualified the NEET UG 2026 and wish to participate in the second round of seat allotment can register at the official MCC website, mcc.nic.in. The registration is open till September 8.

Round 2 counselling provides them with a second chance to acquire a medical seat as well as an opportunity to secure their preference of college and course. Candidates who did not receive allotment in Round 1, those desiring to elevate their allotted seat, and eligible candidates who did not participate in the first round can take part in the Round 2 process.

They will be required to submit their preference of colleges and courses during the choice-filling window. The choice is to be locked till September 9. The MCC will process the applications and announce the Round 2 seat allotment result on September 11, 2026.

Candidates who are allotted seats in the second round will have to report to their respective Colleges between September 12 and September 18. They will have to complete the admission formalities and document verification within this timeframe to confirm their allotted seats.

NEET UG Counselling 2026 Round 2: Key Dates

The Round 2 registration and choice-filling window will span from September 3 to September 8, 2026. Candidates will have time till September 9 to lock their choices. The seat allotment result is planned to be announced on September 11, followed by the reporting and admission procedure from September 12 to September 18.

Who can apply for MCC NEET UG Round 2?

Candidates who were not allotted a seat during Round 1 have the option to apply for the second round. Those who received a seat but desire to elevate it to a preferred college or course can also participate, subject to the applicable counselling rules. Candidates who did not register or participate in Round 1 can also apply for Round 2.

How to apply for NEET UG Counselling Round 2?

Candidates should first visit the official website of the MCC, i.e., mcc.nic.in and locate the link for NEET UG Counselling 2026 Round 2 registration. They will have to enter the required credentials, and after completing the registration by providing their personal and NEET-related details, applicants can proceed to choice filling and select their preferred colleges and courses in the order they want.

They will then have to make a payment of the applicable counselling fee. The registration fee is non-refundable, while the security deposit is refundable and is adjusted as per the admission rules. The payment can be made online by employing a credit card, debit card or net banking.

Candidates should exercise diligence in their choices before they lock them, as their application preferences play an important role in the allotment process. They should also keep the registration form, fee payment receipt and choice details handy for future reference.

Delhi H1N1 cases surge: Doctors explain rise, symptoms and who faces higher risk

Delhi has reported a sharp rise in H1N1 influenza cases this year, with 1,777 infections recorded up to August 20, compared with 229 during the corresponding period last year.

H1N1 has emerged as the dominant Influenza A subtype in the capital this year. Of the 2,392 Influenza A cases reported up to August 20, 1,777 were H1N1, while the total number of Influenza A and B infections stood at 2,602.

The rise has raised concerns about whether a new or more dangerous strain of the virus is circulating. However, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has said there is no evidence of a new H1N1 strain and no reason for panic.

Doctors report rise in severe cases

Doctors across Delhi say they are seeing more influenza patients, with some developing pneumonia, respiratory distress and other complications.

Dr Animesh, Professor of Medicine at AIIMS Delhi, said influenza viruses undergo genetic changes over time, which can leave more people susceptible to circulating variants.

He said he was seeing around 15 to 20 influenza patients every day in his outpatient department. Some patients have developed pneumonia and respiratory distress, while others have reported diarrhoea and complications including kidney injury.

Doctors are also reporting secondary infections in some patients after the initial influenza illness.

No evidence of a new or more lethal strain

Dr Ashish Choudhary, Professor and In-charge of Virology at AIIMS Delhi, said the H1N1 virus currently circulating is not more lethal than previous seasonal variants.

The virus commonly known as pandemic H1N1 emerged during the 2009 swine flu pandemic and has since become a seasonal influenza virus. It continues to undergo minor genetic changes, a process known as antigenic drift.

Dr Choudhary said most infections remain mild, although patients with underlying illnesses are more vulnerable to severe disease.

At AIIMS, around 40 to 50 respiratory samples are being tested daily, with positivity rates varying between 5% and 15%, he said.

Pneumonia, oxygen requirement reported

Dr Rajesh Chawla, Senior Consultant in Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said the number of influenza cases has increased compared with last year.

He said some patients are requiring oxygen support and progressing to pneumonia. Gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea and, in some cases, blood in stools, have also been reported.

Doctors believe weather conditions and increased transmission may be contributing to the current surge.

Persistent cough and gastrointestinal symptoms

Dr Neha Rastogi, Senior Consultant in Infectious Diseases at Fortis Hospital, said doctors are seeing clusters of infections, with increased travel and greater testing also contributing to the rise in detected cases.

She said many patients are experiencing high fever during the first few days, followed by a persistent cough that takes longer to resolve.

Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea and stomach cramps are also appearing alongside respiratory symptoms in some patients.

Who is at greater risk?

Doctors say severe influenza is more likely among:

Older adults
Young children
People with lung or other chronic illnesses
Patients with weakened immunity
People with other underlying medical conditions

Dr GC Khilnani, Chairman of the PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, said most severe cases being treated at his hospital involved patients with co-morbidities.

Do all patients need antivirals?

Doctors have cautioned that antiviral medicines are not required for every influenza patient.

Patients with mild illness generally recover without antiviral treatment. However, people at high risk of complications and those with severe disease may require antiviral therapy.

Oseltamivir is commonly used for influenza treatment, with doctors deciding whether it is appropriate based on the patient's condition. Antivirals work best when started early, particularly within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

What should people do?

The current rise in H1N1 infections is significant, but doctors and ICMR have stressed that there is no evidence of a new pandemic strain.

People can reduce the risk of infection by maintaining hand hygiene, wearing masks in crowded settings and avoiding close contact with people who are unwell. Vaccination can also help protect against seasonal influenza.

People with underlying health conditions should seek medical attention promptly if they develop significant or worsening symptoms, particularly breathing difficulty, persistent high fever or signs of pneumonia.

Maharashtra Nursing Exam Paper Leak: Supervisor Allegedly Sends Question Paper on WhatsApp, 5 Arrested

Five people were arrested in Parbhani, Maharashtra, after an examination supervisor allegedly photographed a question paper during a nursing examination and sent it to her sister through WhatsApp, police said.

The alleged malpractice took place on Friday during the first-year General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) examination at the Indira Gandhi A.N.M. Nursing School.

The arrested accused have been identified as examination supervisor Rakhi Chavan, her sister Rani Chavan, Pratiksha Kiran Khillare, Ishwar Baraboina and Dilip Borkar.

According to police, Rakhi Chavan was deployed as a supervisor at the examination centre. The examination began at around 10.30 am and, shortly afterwards, she allegedly used her mobile phone to photograph the question paper.

She allegedly sent the photograph to her sister through WhatsApp, police said.

Central Inspection Detects Paper Leak

The alleged malpractice came to light during an inspection by central officials at the examination centre.

Officials reportedly suspected that a question paper had been taken out of the examination hall while the test was still underway. Centre inspector Vishwajit Mathapati subsequently searched for the female invigilator and checked her mobile phone.

During the inspection, officials allegedly found a photograph of the question paper on her phone.

The matter was immediately reported to the police.

Case Registered Against Five

Based on a complaint filed by the centre inspector, police registered a case against the five accused and arrested them.

Investigators are now probing the alleged role of each accused and examining whether the question paper image was forwarded to other people or used to help candidates during the examination.

Police are also investigating whether there were any additional people involved in the alleged malpractice.

Despite the incident, officials said the examination continued as scheduled without interruption.

The case has raised fresh concerns about examination security and the misuse of mobile phones and messaging applications to circulate question papers during tests.

Further investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged leak and determine whether any students received or benefited from the question paper image.

MP Nursing Colleges Under Scanner: NSUI Alleges Faculty Shortage, Forged Certificates; Seeks Probe

MP Nursing Colleges Face Faculty Shortage, Recognition Concerns; NSUI Seeks Probe

Several government-run nursing colleges in Madhya Pradesh have come under scrutiny following allegations of faculty shortages, vacant administrative posts and submission of forged or fabricated experience certificates for recognition for the 2026-27 academic session.

The allegations were raised by National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) state vice-president Ravi Parmar at a press conference in Bhopal on Sunday. The student organisation has demanded a high-level inquiry and warned of further agitation if authorities fail to take action.

Faculty Shortage Allegations at Nursing Colleges

According to Parmar, six government nursing colleges are functioning without principals, while another 10 colleges do not have vice-principals.

NSUI has also alleged that several government nursing colleges do not have the minimum teaching staff required under the Madhya Pradesh government's 2018 recognition regulations.

The rules prescribe minimum faculty requirements based on student intake. For an intake of 30 students, the prescribed staffing structure includes a principal, vice-principal, two associate professors and other teaching staff.

The student organisation has called for a detailed verification of the actual faculty strength at the institutions and the documents submitted as part of the recognition process.

Allegations of Forged Experience Certificates

NSUI has further alleged that some colleges submitted forged or fabricated faculty experience certificates while seeking recognition for the 2026-27 academic session.

According to information presented by the organisation, 22 government nursing colleges applied for recognition, of which three were not granted recognition.

The remaining institutions have now come under scrutiny following the allegations. NSUI has called for authorities to examine the credentials and experience certificates submitted by faculty members and determine whether they comply with the applicable recognition requirements.

NSUI Approaches Madhya Pradesh High Court

The student organisation has also approached the Madhya Pradesh High Court over the alleged irregularities.

An advocate representing NSUI said a petition has been filed seeking an inquiry into the allegations and appropriate action against individuals found responsible.

NSUI has demanded that authorities investigate both the faculty vacancies and documentation submitted by nursing colleges as part of the recognition process.

However, the allegations currently remain claims made by NSUI and have not been independently established. The concerned authorities would need to verify the staffing records, recognition documents and experience certificates before determining whether any violations occurred.

The controversy comes amid growing scrutiny of nursing education standards, faculty requirements and recognition norms, with NSUI warning that it could launch further agitation if the alleged irregularities are not addressed.

Biology Careers After Class 12: 10 High-Paying Career Options Beyond MBBS

For students who choose Biology after Class 10, the most common career goal is often to become a doctor. While MBBS remains one of the most sought-after career paths, biology offers a much wider range of opportunities across healthcare, research, biotechnology, genetics, data science, agriculture and nutrition.

With the right degree, specialised training and relevant skills, biology students can build careers in India and overseas. Here are some promising career options after Class 12 Biology.

1. Doctor: The Most Popular Biology Career

Medicine continues to be one of the most popular choices for biology students. Students who qualify for the required entrance examination can pursue MBBS and later specialise in areas such as cardiology, oncology, paediatrics, radiology or other medical disciplines.

Medical professionals can work in hospitals, clinics, research institutions and public health organisations. Specialisation and experience can significantly influence career growth and earning potential.

2. Biotechnology: Careers in Research and Innovation

Biotechnology combines biological sciences with technology to develop products and processes used in healthcare, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and other industries.

Students can pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in biotechnology and explore careers in research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms and academic institutions.

Biotechnologists can contribute to areas such as drug development, vaccine research, diagnostics and industrial biotechnology.

3. Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science

Students interested in understanding diseases at the cellular and molecular level can explore molecular biology and biomedical sciences.

Professionals in these fields contribute to medical research, disease studies, drug discovery and the development of new diagnostic techniques. Advanced qualifications can open opportunities in research institutions, universities and healthcare-related industries.

4. Bioinformatics: Where Biology Meets Data Science

Bioinformatics is an emerging field that combines biology, computer science and data analysis.

Professionals analyse biological and genetic data using computational tools. The field has applications in genomics, drug discovery, personalised medicine and biomedical research.

For biology students who also enjoy computers, mathematics or data analysis, bioinformatics can be a particularly interesting career option.

5. Genetics and Genetic Counselling

Advances in genomics and personalised healthcare have increased the importance of genetics-related careers.

Students can explore areas such as genetic research, genomic analysis and genetic counselling through relevant academic and professional pathways.

Genetics professionals can work in healthcare, research laboratories and specialised diagnostic settings, depending on their qualifications and professional requirements.

6. Forensic Science

Biology students with an interest in crime investigation can consider forensic science.

Forensic professionals use scientific techniques to examine biological evidence and assist criminal investigations. Areas can include DNA analysis, toxicology and forensic biology.

Careers are available across forensic laboratories, investigative agencies, research institutions and other organisations, subject to the required qualifications and recruitment rules.

7. Public Health and Epidemiology

Not every biology career involves treating individual patients.

Public health and epidemiology focus on preventing diseases and improving health outcomes across communities and populations. Professionals may work on disease surveillance, health programmes, research and policy.

Students interested in healthcare, research and social impact can consider relevant degrees in public health, epidemiology or related disciplines.

8. Agriculture and Food Science

Biology also opens doors to careers in agricultural science, food technology and food science.

Professionals can work on crop improvement, food safety, nutrition, agricultural research and the development of sustainable food systems.

These careers can be suitable for students interested in applying biological knowledge beyond traditional healthcare.

9. Nutrition and Dietetics

Students interested in the relationship between food, health and human wellbeing can explore nutrition and dietetics.

Depending on their qualifications and applicable regulations, professionals can work in hospitals, wellness organisations, food companies, research institutions and community health programmes.

10. Teaching and Academic Research

Students who enjoy biology and want to pursue an academic career can consider teaching and research.

Higher qualifications in biological sciences can lead to opportunities in colleges, universities and research institutions. Academic careers can combine teaching, scientific research and mentoring students.

Biology Is More Than Just MBBS

Choosing Biology after Class 12 does not mean that students have only one career option.

From medicine and biotechnology to bioinformatics, genetics, forensic science, public health, agriculture and nutrition, the biological sciences offer diverse career pathways.

Students should evaluate a course based on their interests, aptitude, academic requirements, career goals and the qualifications needed for the profession rather than choosing a career solely because it is considered popular or high-paying.

For students willing to build specialised expertise, the expanding intersection of biology, technology, healthcare and data science is creating new career opportunities both in India and globally.

Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences NEET UG Cutoff 2026: Check Expected Opening and Closing Ranks

Candidates seeking MBBS admission at Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Madikeri, can refer to previous-year Karnataka state counselling trends to estimate the NEET UG 2026 opening and closing ranks.

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has released the state rank list for admission to MBBS seats based on NEET UG 2026 scores. The Karnataka state quota and category-wise ranks will play an important role in determining admission to medical colleges across the state.

KIMS NEET UG 2026 Expected Cutoff

Based on previous-year Round 1 trends, the expected NEET UG 2026 cutoff ranks for Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences are as follows:

Category	2025 Round 1	2024 Round 1	2023 Round 1	2026 Expected Round 1
General Merit (GM)	31,234	40,814	39,421	35,745–40,814
2A General (2AG)	42,784	53,455	52,500	47,928–53,455
2B General (2BG)	50,675	49,861	50,959	50,487–50,959
3A General (3AG)	31,867	42,568	41,747	37,053–42,568
3B General (3BG)	35,222	42,911	43,677	39,219–43,677
SC General (SCG)	1,37,844	1,50,489	1,37,701	1,41,608–1,50,489
ST General (STG)	1,27,486	1,32,616	1,18,838	1,27,295–1,32,616

The 2026 figures are expected ranges based on previous-year trends and should not be treated as official closing ranks.

Karnataka State Quota Reservation

Candidates applying through Karnataka state counselling should also understand the applicable reservation provisions.

The information provided for the Karnataka state quota includes:

15% reservation under the Government Quota for eligible rural candidates.
5% reservation under the Government Quota for eligible Kannada-medium candidates.
70% reservation for candidates belonging to the Hyderabad-Karnataka region under the specified regional quota.
7% reservation for Hyderabad-Karnataka region students in Karnataka state medical colleges.

Candidates should check the latest KEA counselling notification and eligibility rules before relying on any reservation figure, as the applicability of quotas can depend on the specific seat type and eligibility criteria.

What Determines KIMS NEET Cutoff 2026?

The final Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences NEET UG cutoff 2026 can vary significantly from the expected range. Some of the key factors include:

1. Number of NEET Candidates

A change in the number of candidates appearing for NEET UG can affect competition for MBBS seats and consequently influence closing ranks.

2. Category-Wise Competition

The number of candidates competing within each reservation category can influence the category-wise cutoff.

3. Quota and Seat Type

The cutoff can differ depending on whether a candidate is competing for a Karnataka state quota, government quota or another applicable seat category.

4. Previous-Year Trends

Previous-year opening and closing ranks provide a useful reference for estimating the likely cutoff, although they cannot guarantee the 2026 admission rank.

KIMS NEET UG Cutoff 2026: What Candidates Should Know

Candidates should remember that the official closing rank is determined during counselling and can change from one round to another depending on seat availability, candidate preferences and withdrawals.

Therefore, students should use the expected KIMS NEET UG 2026 cutoff only as a reference for choice filling and college selection and should check the official KEA counselling results for the final closing rank.

Beyond MBBS and BDS: 10 Alternative Medical Courses for a Career in Healthcare

For Indian students aspiring to build a career in healthcare, MBBS and BDS are often considered the most obvious choices. However, the healthcare sector offers a much wider range of academic and career opportunities.

From Pharmacy and Physiotherapy to Nursing, Medical Laboratory Technology and Biomedical Engineering, students can choose courses based on their interests and skills without limiting themselves to conventional medical degrees.

Exploring these alternative medical courses after Class 12 can also help students understand the diverse roles that keep the healthcare ecosystem functioning.

1. B.Pharm: Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

A Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) is an option for students interested in medicines, drug development and pharmaceutical sciences.

Pharmacy professionals play an important role in ensuring the safe and effective use of medicines. Graduates can explore opportunities in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, drug manufacturing, research, clinical trials and regulatory roles.

For students interested in both healthcare and science, pharmacy can offer several career pathways beyond clinical practice.

2. BPT: Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

The Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) focuses on rehabilitation, movement and helping patients regain physical function.

Physiotherapists work with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, neurological conditions and lifestyle-related health problems. Career opportunities are available in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centres, sports facilities and private practice.

The growing focus on rehabilitation and preventive healthcare has increased the importance of physiotherapy professionals.

3. B.Sc Nursing: A Career in Patient Care and Healthcare Services

Nursing has evolved considerably beyond its traditional perception of assisting doctors.

A B.Sc Nursing degree can lead to careers across hospitals, public healthcare, community health programmes, military healthcare and other medical settings. Nurses may also develop expertise in specialised clinical care, healthcare management, research and advanced medical procedures.

For students seeking a people-oriented healthcare profession, nursing remains an important career option.

4. Medical Laboratory Technology: A Career in Diagnostics

Students who enjoy laboratory work and diagnostic science can consider Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT).

MLT programmes train students in areas such as pathology, microbiology and laboratory testing. Medical laboratory professionals work behind the scenes but play a critical role in diagnosis and treatment because doctors rely heavily on accurate laboratory reports.

Career opportunities can be found in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research facilities and healthcare organisations.

5. BAMS, BHMS and BUMS: Traditional Systems of Medicine

Students interested in India's traditional systems of medicine can explore courses such as:

BAMS – Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery
BHMS – Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery
BUMS – Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery

These programmes offer students an opportunity to study established systems of traditional medicine and explore careers in clinical practice, hospitals, wellness settings and research, subject to the applicable professional regulations.

6. Biomedical Engineering: Combining Technology and Medicine

For students who enjoy engineering, technology and healthcare, biomedical engineering can offer an interdisciplinary career path.

Biomedical engineers apply engineering principles to healthcare technologies, including medical devices, diagnostic equipment, prosthetics and other medical technologies.

As healthcare becomes increasingly technology-driven, professionals who understand both engineering and medical applications can contribute to healthcare innovation.

7. Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy focuses on helping people regain or develop the skills required for everyday activities following illness, injury or disability.

Occupational therapists can work with patients across different age groups and healthcare settings. The profession combines rehabilitation, patient interaction and practical problem-solving.

8. Public Health

Students interested in healthcare at a population level can consider Public Health programmes.

Unlike clinical courses that primarily focus on individual patients, public health focuses on areas such as disease prevention, health promotion, epidemiology, community health and healthcare policy.

It can be a suitable option for students interested in understanding and improving health outcomes at the community or population level.

9. Hospital and Healthcare Management

Healthcare also requires professionals who can manage hospitals, healthcare organisations and medical services.

Courses in Hospital Management and Healthcare Administration can prepare students for roles involving hospital operations, administration, healthcare services, quality management and related areas.

Students interested in management but wanting to remain connected to the healthcare sector can consider this pathway.

10. Explore Healthcare Careers Beyond MBBS and BDS

Choosing a healthcare career does not necessarily mean pursuing MBBS or BDS.

Pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, medical laboratory technology, traditional medicine, biomedical engineering, occupational therapy, public health and healthcare management represent some of the many pathways available to students.

The right course ultimately depends on a student's interests, academic strengths, career goals and preferred work environment.

For students preparing to enter the healthcare sector, looking beyond the most popular medical courses can open up career opportunities they may not have considered earlier. Choosing an alternative medical course is not necessarily a compromise—it can be a deliberate decision to build a career around a specific area of healthcare that matches one's skills and interests.