An insight into the undergraduate medical research in India

Relevant health research has contributed to the increase of life expectancy in India over the past 60 years. It is important to investigate the health problems, find and implement solutions to achieve better lifestyle. Recognising the importance of research, few medical colleges in the developed countries have initiated student research programmes. In India, undergraduate medical research is far from satisfactory and is worsened with the mushrooming of large number of ill equipped medical colleges. This fact is proved by a study which reports that 70% of medical students expressed unawareness about research. Though there do exist few student research programmes in India, awareness about them is the need of hour. We aim to address significance of undergraduate medical research. Research projects can help the students to develop critical analysis, thinking and also enhance their skills in searching literature and independent writing. Students should recognise the role of medical research in their practice. Undergraduate students are encouraged to take up short term projects. Research projects should be considered in post-graduate examinations like in abroad and funding should be allotted for undergraduate student research. In conclusion, there is a need to emphasise the importance of research among the undergraduate medical students and encouragement and proper guidance should be made available to the students.