Will Karnataka Government Maintain No Fee Increase for Nursing Courses This Year?
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Synopsis
In a significant move for nursing students, Karnataka government has ruled out any fee hikes for this academic year, asserting its commitment to supporting economically weaker sections. This decision comes amidst pressures from private colleges seeking fee increases.
Key Takeaways
- No increase in nursing course fees for this academic year.
- Government aims to protect economically disadvantaged students.
- Existing fee structure remains unchanged.
- Colleges charging above approved fees will face penalties.
- Fee reimbursement for colleges to be completed within 30 days.
Bengaluru, July 10 (NationPress) In a decisive announcement aimed at private nursing colleges, the Karnataka government has confirmed that there will be no increase in fees for nursing courses for the current academic year, emphasizing its dedication to safeguarding students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Medical Education and Skill Development Minister Sharanaprakash Patil conveyed this message during a meeting with the Association of Nursing Colleges at Vikasa Soudha on Thursday.
“The government will strictly prohibit any fee hikes. A significant number of nursing students hail from rural and economically weaker sections. Introducing additional fees is unfair and unacceptable,” asserted Minister Patil, dismissing the association's request for a fee increase.
He confirmed that the current fee structure will remain unchanged: Rs 10,000 for the government quota, Rs 1 lakh for the management quota, and Rs 1.4 lakh for students from outside Karnataka.
“Colleges that charge more than the sanctioned fees will face penalties and possible legal repercussions. We will not hesitate to revoke their affiliation,” he emphasized.
At present, Karnataka has 611 nursing colleges with approximately 35,000 available seats. Of these, 80% are filled by management, while 20% are allocated to the government quota.
The minister instructed the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) Director H. Prasanna to ensure that nursing colleges receive fee reimbursements within 30 days. He further clarified that only the state government will make decisions regarding unallocated seats, preventing any unauthorized alterations.
On May 17, the Karnataka government stated that there would be no increase in the fee structures for medical and dental courses in the upcoming academic year, despite pressure from private medical colleges.
Private colleges had sought a fee hike of 10% to 15%. However, Minister Patil emphasized that while a 10% increase was permitted last year, there will be no fee raise this year.
In September 2024, Minister Sharan Prakash Patil mandated the creation of a fee regulatory committee to oversee and manage the fee structures of nursing colleges, following complaints about excessively high fees.
The five-member committee will be led by the Joint Secretary of the Medical Education Department.
Patil also directed the withdrawal of the Essential and Feasibility Certificate (EC & FC) from any nursing college found to impose fees exceeding government-prescribed limits.
In efforts against substandard para-medical colleges, Minister Patil instructed officials to revoke affiliations and shut down institutions failing to meet the necessary infrastructure and educational standards.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of the Karnataka government's decision to maintain the current fee structure for nursing courses. This move not only demonstrates a commitment to educational equity but also addresses the concerns of financially vulnerable students. By prioritizing accessibility, the government showcases its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current fee structure for nursing courses in Karnataka?
The existing fee structure includes Rs 10,000 for the government quota, Rs 1 lakh for the management quota, and Rs 1.4 lakh for non-Karnataka students.
Why did the Karnataka government decide against a fee hike?
The government aims to protect students from economically weaker sections, emphasizing that imposing additional fees would be unjust.
What will happen to colleges that charge more than the approved fees?
Colleges charging above the sanctioned fees will face penalties and potential legal action, including the revocation of their affiliation.
When will nursing colleges receive fee reimbursements?
The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) is directed to ensure fee reimbursements to nursing colleges within 30 days.
How many nursing colleges are there in Karnataka?
Currently, there are 611 nursing colleges in the state, offering around 35,000 seats.
