In Karnataka, NEET now mandatory for Physiotherapy courses

Bengaluru: Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development, Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil, on Thursday announced that admissions to Physiotherapy courses will now come under the purview of NEET, aligning with the national move towards standardised medical education.

Additionally, the course duration has been extended to five years to enable competence-based learning and deeper clinical exposure.

Speaking at the inauguration of Karnataka Physiocon-25, an international conference on physiotherapy held at Bangalore Palace Grounds, Dr. Patil expressed the state government’s support for including Physiotherapy courses admission under the ambit of NEET.

“We welcome the integration of Physiotherapy courses under NEET which will enhance academic quality and professional standards,” he said.

Addressing over 10,000 students at the event, Dr. Patil highlighted the pivotal role physiotherapists play across the healthcare spectrum from childbirth to elderly care.

“Physiotherapists today contribute significantly to neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation, cardiopulmonary care, pediatrics, disability support, sports medicine, fitness, and community-based care,” he noted.

He also revealed the state’s plans to introduce Physiotherapy courses in more government colleges to meet the growing domestic and international demand for trained professionals.

Present at the event, Dr. Yagna Shukla, chairperson of the National Commission for Allied and Health Professionals said the commission was planning on introducing a One Nation, One Curriculum initiative in Physiotherapy education, saying such reforms would set a golden standard that would elevate the profession with far-reaching benefits for students and practitioners alike.

The conference saw participation from global experts from Israel, Australia, and Nepal, alongside 50 national experts sharing insights with delegates.

Over 800 research papers were presented during the event, making it one of the largest platforms for physiotherapy professionals in the region.

Speaker of the Assembly UT Khader, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences vice chancellor Dr Bhagwan, and Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Naseer Ahmed, were present.