India, June 19 -- In a move aimed at addressing shortage of doctors in government health institutions, the Punjab government has introduced a new bond policy for students enrolling in MBBS and BDS courses in state-run medical and dental colleges.

The policy, which will come into effect from the academic session 2025-26, mandates that students either serve in government healthcare facilities for two years after completing their degrees or pay a bond of Rs.20 lakh.

The policy also applies to students admitted under the "All-India quota", but their mandatory service period will be limited to one year.

"A service bond of Rs.20,00,000 shall be applicable to students admitted under both state and All India quotas. The duration of the bond is...