Postgraduate Medical Thesis in India: Beneficial or a Futile Exercise?

Abstract Thesis writing in postgraduate medical education was envisioned as a tool to instill research aptitude, critical thinking and scholarly inquiry. However, in India, the thesis process has increasingly become marred by disinterest, unethical practices and mental harassment. With over 90% of residents reporting burnout and 16.7% experiencing suicidal ideation, the current model demands urgent reform. Institutional apathy, lack of research training, plagiarism and guide–student power imbalances have eroded the academic value of thesis work. The National Medical Commission mandates essential research courses and ethics protocols, but gaps remain. Proposals include mandatory fortnightly thesis reviews, access to free journals and a departmental collaborative research model replacing individual theses. Guides should ideally possess research credibility, and institutions must facilitate funding and mentorship. A compassionate, structured and transparent thesis environment is vital to transforming thesis writing into a rewarding academic exercise rather than a mental health hazard.