Fri Jan 16 07:10:00 UTC 2026: ### KNRUHS Formalizes Maternity Leave Policy for Medical and Dental Students
The Story:
The Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences (KNRUHS) has officially released detailed guidelines regarding maternity leave for students enrolled in undergraduate, postgraduate, and super-specialty medical and dental courses in both government and private colleges. A formal order has been circulated to the principals and deans of affiliated institutions, mandating strict adherence to the prescribed maternity leave and rejoining rules. The university has clarified conditions for rejoining after leave, including instances where rejoining fees apply and potential ramifications for prolonged absence.
Key Points:
- Students taking maternity leave of up to 90 days can rejoin classes immediately.
- Leave exceeding 91 days requires a rejoining fee of ₹15,000.
- Breaks in studies exceeding 91 days in multiple spells will be reviewed by the KNRUHS executive council and forwarded to the state government.
- Absence for a continuous or cumulative period of two years or more will result in admission forfeiture.
- All women postgraduate students are eligible for maternity leave without payment of a rejoining fee, however, the duration of their PG course will be extended by the period equal to the leave.
Key Takeaways:
- Formalization of Policy: KNRUHS has taken steps to formalize and standardize maternity leave policies for medical and dental students.
- Financial Implications: While maternity leave is permitted, there are financial penalties (₹15,000 rejoining fee) for extended leaves beyond 90 days for undergraduate students.
- PG Student Benefits: Postgraduate students receive maternity leave without rejoining fees, however, the length of the course will be extended by the length of the leave.
- Strict Enforcement: The university is emphasizing strict adherence to the rules by instructing institutions to comply with the outlined guidelines.
Impact Analysis:
The formalization of maternity leave policies is likely to have a positive impact on female medical and dental students, allowing them to balance their academic pursuits with motherhood. However, the ₹15,000 rejoining fee for undergraduate students taking extended leave may present a financial burden for some. The two-year absence rule could push students to make tough choices about their academic career. The extension of PG courses for maternity leave will mean that students are provided the adequate time to complete their training.
First Piper 