In recent times, it has become quite common to see young individuals, especially boys, joining the medical profession as Medical Representatives (MRs). This trend is widespread across India, with pharmaceutical companies actively hiring youth to promote their medicines. While this has opened doors for employment, a crucial question arises—What is the qualification criteria for becoming an MR?

Traditionally, one would assume that a Medical Representative should have a background in pharmacy, life sciences, or at least a minimum level of education that ensures they understand the medical field. However, a shocking observation has surfaced: many MRs lack even a basic qualification, with some not even passing the 10th standard.
This raises serious concerns. When I recently visited a hospital, I saw young boys holding catalogues and explaining medicine usage to doctors. It made me wonder—how are they trained? Do they undergo any formal examination? Or do pharmaceutical companies simply provide short-term training and send them into the field?
The Business behind the MR System: Pharmaceutical companies are spread all over India, and their approach to hiring seems to be focused more on marketing rather than medical expertise. This brings us to another concern: how do these MRs make such high earnings in a short span?It is common to hear that some MRs manage to buy a car within a month or two of joining. This raises suspicions:
Are these companies offering high salaries?
Or is MRs earning through incentives and commissions from doctors and chemists?
Is there an undisclosed margin in medicine pricing that allows such high incentives?
The Medicine Pricing Controversy: One of the major complaints from patients across India, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir, is the varying prices of medicines. Viral videos and reports have highlighted that the same medicine costs significantly less in other states compared to J&K. This leads to the suspicion that hidden costs, incentives for chemists, and MR commissions are inflating prices.
Ultimately, it is the poor patient who suffers. They have no option but to buy the medicine at the price set by the market, without knowing the real cost.
Need for a Standardized Qualification for MRs
Given these concerns, it is essential to establish a mandatory qualification and training systemfor Medical Representatives. Some key recommendations include:
Minimum Educational Qualification – At least a graduate degree in pharmacy, life sciences, or a related field should be mandatory.
Standardized Training Program – All MRs should undergo proper medical training and certification before joining a company.
Transparent Salary & Incentives – The government should regulate how MRs are compensated to prevent unethical marketing tactics.
Medicine Price Regulation – Strict policies should be enforced to control medicine pricing and eliminate hidden costs.
While the pharmaceutical sector provides employment opportunities, it should not come at the cost of medical ethics and patient welfare. The role of an MR is crucial, as they act as a bridge between doctors and pharmaceutical companies. Therefore, their qualifications, training, and ethics must be properly regulated.
It is time for authorities to step in and set clear guidelines to ensure that the medical profession remains trustworthy and beneficial to the common people.

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