Maharashtra Pharmacy Admissions Stalled Due to Election Code, Delaying Classes

Pune, 25th November 2024: The Maharashtra State Government’s approval for increasing admission capacity and granting permissions to new colleges offering Pharmacy courses has been delayed due to the model code of conduct for the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Elections. As a result, the admission process for these courses has been stalled, further delaying the start of classes for students. The necessary decisions will only be taken once the new government is formed.

In Maharashtra, the Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell oversees the Pharmacy course admission process. This year, the CET Cell initiated the process, and around 60% of seats for diploma and degree courses were filled during the first two rounds of admissions. However, the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has recently approved new colleges and increased admission capacities for existing ones. Due to the election-related restrictions, the Maharashtra Government has not yet issued the required notification, halting the remaining admission process.

With the new government yet to take charge, it will take at least two more months to complete the remaining admission rounds. This delay is expected to disrupt the academic calendar, affecting students’ ability to complete their first semester and exams on time.

Prof. Ramdas Zol, founder of Dattakala Institute, noted that while 50–60% of seats were filled in the initial rounds, admissions for vacant seats would now only proceed after the third round, which will be conducted at the institutional level. He emphasised that stopping the admission process instead of utilising the existing seats has caused significant academic setbacks for students. Meanwhile, the CET Cell has clarified that further action will be implemented based on the government’s directives, Prof. Zol added.