GADVASU Approves Internship Stipend Hike After 7-Month Student Protest
In a significant development for veterinary education in Punjab, the Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) has officially approved a substantial increase in internship stipends for its students. This decision comes after approximately seven months of sustained protests and demands from veterinary interns seeking financial parity with their medical counterparts.
Stipend Increased to Match MBBS Standards
The university's Board of Management (BoM) has sanctioned the revised stipend structure during a crucial meeting held on Thursday. According to official information, the monthly internship stipend has been elevated from Rs 12,000 to Rs 22,000, precisely matching the amount received by MBBS students during their internship period in Punjab.
Dr. JPS Gill, Vice-Chancellor of GADVASU, emphasized that this approval demonstrates the institution's unwavering commitment to student welfare and academic advancement. The enhanced stipend will become applicable immediately following the issuance of the official notification, with all necessary administrative procedures currently being finalized to ensure seamless implementation.
Addressing Long-Standing Demands
Veterinary students pursuing Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (BVSc & AH) degrees had been advocating for this change for months, arguing that they face similar or even greater workloads compared to MBBS and BDS interns. Their primary contention centered on what they described as "discrimination" in stipend allocation, particularly since all these professional programs require students to clear the highly competitive NEET entrance examination.
Dr. Gill elaborated on the importance of internships in veterinary education, stating: "Internships represent a crucial phase where students acquire hands-on experience in clinical practice, livestock management, and field-level problem-solving. The enhanced stipend will alleviate financial pressures during this period and motivate students to approach their duties with increased dedication and professionalism."
University Response to Student Concerns
The university administration has strongly refuted claims circulating among some student groups suggesting inaction on the stipend issue. Dr. Gill clarified that the matter had already been resolved through proper institutional channels before the public announcement.
However, students maintain that the university should promptly issue the official notification and provide clear details regarding the exact implementation date for the revised stipend structure. They emphasize that timely communication is essential to ensure all eligible interns receive the increased financial support without unnecessary delays.
Broader Implications for Veterinary Education
This decision aligns with GADVASU's broader vision of producing skilled, confident, and field-ready graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to Punjab's livestock sector. By addressing the financial concerns of interns, the university aims to:
- Reduce economic burdens during critical training periods
- Enhance student motivation and professional commitment
- Attract talented individuals to veterinary sciences
- Strengthen the overall quality of veterinary education in the region
The resolution of this seven-month standoff marks a positive step toward recognizing the value of veterinary professionals and ensuring equitable treatment across healthcare education streams in Punjab.
