Integrating research into medical education: the conceptualization and establishment of a student-led undergraduate (UG) research committee in India

Undergraduate (UG) research offers early exposure to clinical and evidence-based medicine (EBM), yet participation among UG medical students remains limited due to inadequate structural guidance and mentorship. Developing research aptitude early in medical training is now essential, making it necessary for medical colleges to create institutional frameworks that support and nurture student research. This descriptive mixed-methods program-evaluation study was conducted at a government medical college and tertiary-care hospital in western India over five years (February 2020–September 2025). It documents the conceptualization, establishment, and progressive self-reported outcomes of “JIGNYASA: The UG Research Committee”. The student-led, senior-mentored model resulted in a marked rise in research engagement: 228 student-initiated research projects, 34 grant approvals, and 59 publications were achieved. Key contributors to success included ongoing research-promotion activities, round-the-clock guidance, and continuous feedback-based restructuring. The blueprint highlights the committee’s foundation, challenges, milestones, and its replicable structure, offering a sustainable model for medical institutions aiming to establish student-driven research platforms with minimal financial requirements.