1. What is MD Shalakya Tantra?
MD Shalakya Tantra is a 3-year postgraduate degree that focuses on the Ayurvedic treatment of disorders of the eyes (Netra Roga), ears (Karna Roga), nose (Nasa Roga), throat (Kantha Roga), and head (Shira Roga). This speciality of Ayurveda deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases in these regions through both internal and external therapies. Ayurvedic techniques like Nasya Karma, Karnapoorana, Netra Tarpana, and Shirodhara are integral components of the Shalakya Tantra treatment methodology.
The course equips students with in-depth knowledge of traditional Ayurvedic practices, modern diagnostic tools, and clinical skills to address a variety of head, eye, ear, nose, and throat-related conditions.
2. Eligibility Criteria for MD Shalakya Tantra
To apply for MD Shalakya Tantra, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Educational Qualification:
- A Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) degree from a recognized Ayurvedic college or university.
- The BAMS degree must be recognized by the (NCISM) or equivalent.
Internship Requirement:
- Candidates must have completed a 1-year internship after finishing their BAMS degree.
Entrance Exam:
- Students must qualify for the AIAPGET (All India AYUSH Post Graduate Entrance Test), which is the national-level entrance exam for MD courses in Ayurveda.
Minimum Marks:
- General category candidates must have secured at least 50% marks in their BAMS degree. For reserved categories, the minimum requirement may be lower, according to the government’s regulations.
3. Admission Process for MD Shalakya Tantra
The MD Shalakya Tantra admission process involves multiple steps:
1. Qualify for AIAPGET:
- The first step in the admission process is qualifying for the AIAPGET (All India AYUSH Post Graduate Entrance Test). This exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is mandatory for admission to MD courses in Ayurveda, including Shalakya Tantra.
2. Counseling Process:
- After the AIAPGET results are announced, candidates will participate in counselling conducted by the Ayush Admissions Central Counseling Committee (AACCC). The counselling process involves seat allotment based on the candidate’s rank and preferences for colleges.
3. Document Verification:
- During the counselling process, students must submit their original documents, such as:
- AIAPGET scorecard
- Internship completion certificate
- BAMS degree
- Category certificate (if applicable)
4. Seat Allotment:
- Based on your AIAPGET rank and seat availability, the counselling authority will allocate seats in different Ayurvedic colleges. You will need to confirm the seat by paying the admission fees.
5. Final Admission:
- Upon successful seat allotment, you must complete the admission formalities in the allotted college, including submission of the fees and necessary documents.
4. Entrance Exams for MD Shalakya Tantra
The primary entrance exam for MD Shalakya Tantra is the AIAPGET. It is a national-level entrance test that covers topics from Ayurveda, including Shalakya Tantra subjects. The details of the exam are as follows:
- Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Total Marks: 400
- Number of Questions: 100 MCQs
- Marking Scheme: +4 for each correct answer and -1 for incorrect answers
Candidates must prepare thoroughly for AIAPGET to secure a seat in one of the top Ayurvedic institutions offering MD Shalakya Tantra.
5. Fee Structure for MD Shalakya Tantra
The fee structure for MD Shalakya Tantra varies depending on whether you enrol in a government or private college.
Private Colleges:
- Tuition Fees: INR 2,50,000 to INR 6,00,000 per year
- Hostel Fees: INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year
- Other Fees: INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per year
6. Career Opportunities after MD Shalakya Tantra
Completing an MD in Shalakya Tantra opens up numerous career options in both India and abroad. Here are some of the common career paths:
1. Ayurvedic ENT Specialist:
- Graduates can work as Ayurvedic specialists focusing on the treatment of disorders related to the ear, nose, throat, and eyes in Ayurvedic hospitals or clinics.
2. Researcher:
- With an increasing focus on integrative medicine, there is a demand for researchers in the field of Ayurvedic ENT and ophthalmology treatments. Graduates can work in research institutions or pharmaceutical companies focusing on Ayurvedic formulations.
3. Academic Faculty:
- MD Shalakya Tantra graduates can become professors or lecturers in Ayurvedic medical colleges. Teaching opportunities are available in both government and private Ayurvedic institutions.
4. Private Practice:
- Some graduates prefer to open their private clinics to provide specialized Ayurvedic treatments for patients suffering from ENT and eye-related issues.
5. Government Jobs:
- Opportunities exist in government hospitals, dispensaries, and AYUSH centres. Graduates can also work as Ayurvedic consultants in various government healthcare schemes.
7. Top Colleges for MD Shalakya Tantra
Here is a list of some of the top Ayurvedic colleges offering MD Shalakya Tantra in India:
1. National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur:
- One of the leading institutes in Ayurvedic education, offering an MD in Shalakya Tantra with an emphasis on practical and clinical training.
2. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi:
- A reputed institution offering MD Shalakya Tantra with a robust curriculum and practical exposure in the field of Ayurvedic ENT and ophthalmology.
3. Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore:
- Known for its top-tier faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, RGUHS offers comprehensive training in MD Shalakya Tantra.
4. Government Ayurvedic College, Patiala:
- This government-run Ayurvedic college is one of the best in the country for postgraduate studies in Shalakya Tantra.
5. Kerala University of Health Sciences, Thrissur:
- Offering an excellent MD Shalakya Tantra program, this university is known for its high standards in Ayurvedic education.
8. FAQs about MD Shalakya Tantra Admission
Q1. What is the duration of the MD Shalakya Tantra course?
- The duration of the MD Shalakya Tantra course is 3 years, which includes theoretical and practical training in Ayurvedic ENT and ophthalmology.
Q2. Is AIAPGET mandatory for MD Shalakya Tantra admission?
- Yes, AIAPGET is mandatory for admission to MD Shalakya Tantra. You must clear this exam to participate in the counselling process for seat allotment.
Q3. What career options are available after completing MD Shalakya Tantra?
- Graduates can work as Ayurvedic ENT specialists, researchers, and academic faculty, or start their private practice. They can also find jobs in government hospitals and clinics.
Q4. What are some key Ayurvedic treatments covered in the MD Shalakya Tantra course?
- Some of the key treatments include Nasya Karma, Karnapoorana, Netra Tarpana, and Shirodhara for treating disorders related to the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.
Q5. What is the average fee structure for MD Shalakya Tantra?
- The average fee ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 6,00,000 per year, depending on whether the college is a government or private institution.