As a medical volunteer in India with PMGY, you’ll have an incredible opportunity to gain first-hand experience and insight into the Indian healthcare system. Working alongside highly trained local staff, you’ll receive invaluable exposure and guidance that you might not typically find in your home country. Whether you’re considering studying healthcare or pursuing a career in the field, PMGY’s India medical programs provide unique learning opportunities to support your professional development.
Medical Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 For Improved Health
- Build Practical Experience On PMGY’s Top Rated Medical Volunteer Program
- Enjoy Clinical Exposure Through Hospital & Outreach Work With Local Doctors
- Explore India’s Golden Triangle With Weekend Trips To The Taj Mahal & Jaipur
- Experience Indian Culture Through Yoga, Bollywood Movies & Pottery Classes
Background to the Medical Program
Despite advancements in India’s healthcare system, much of the population continues to face significant health challenges. This is often due to a lack of awareness about health issues and the inability of many to afford regular medical care, if any at all. The projects we support aim to bridge this gap by providing free or highly subsidised healthcare to people from slum and rural communities.
Our primary focus for medical volunteers in India is supporting medical camps in slum areas. These communities often lack basic health education and access to medical services. To address this, we have established a year-round primary healthcare clinic located in the heart of the main slum community we support. Additionally, our team runs pop-up clinics across some of the poorest areas in the region, ensuring both our local team and international volunteers can make the greatest impact.
As a medical volunteer in India, you’ll have the chance to gain experience across a variety of healthcare settings. This may include shadowing surgeries, observing GP consultations, and supporting day-to-day healthcare initiatives. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you’re a school leaver seeking valuable work experience to enhance your university application or a nursing/medical student planning an overseas elective placement, we can accommodate you. Our medical project in India is widely regarded as one of the best places to volunteer abroad.
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Slum Outreach Health Campaigns – The healthcare clinics we run are at the heart of the medical volunteer project in India. Our primary clinic is located in the Sector 10 community, which is also home to the Volunteer House and our local team. This clinic serves as the main healthcare provider for the community, many of whom would otherwise have no access to medical care.
Our medical staff treat 15-30 patients daily at the Sector 10 clinic, offering primary healthcare and medical check-ups. PMGY also organises free medical camps across other poor communities in Faridabad. These camps are prioritised for the areas with the greatest need and expand in reach as the number of medical volunteers in India increases. A local doctor leads these campaigns, supervises volunteers, and ensures the necessary medical supplies and equipment are available.
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While not guaranteed, medical volunteers in India may have opportunities for basic hands-on tasks, such as measuring blood pressure, checking blood sugar levels, and dressing minor wounds, all under professional supervision. The local staff are welcoming and eager to help volunteers learn. Doctors explain procedures in English, and interpreters are available to bridge any language gaps when interacting with patients.
This medical volunteer abroad program is open to individuals of all backgrounds. Volunteers often learn basic clinical skills and gain valuable insights into the unique health challenges faced by slum communities. The experience is complemented by ongoing training and mentorship from local doctors.
Shadowing in a Hospital Setting – PMGY partners with several hospitals, offering volunteers the chance to observe and learn in various departments. Volunteers may shadow doctors during consultations or assist with basic health checks during rounds.
Common departments for medical volunteers in India include ultrasound, paediatrics, ophthalmology, gynaecology, laboratory services, non-urgent care, and theatre. Placements are typically arranged in private hospitals, which offer more opportunities for volunteers and greater support from doctors. There is also the chance to observe surgeries, though these are arranged on an ad hoc basis and subject to confirmation. Witnessing surgeries can provide a fascinating comparison between hospital standards in India and those back home.
Community Visits – Volunteers accompany local doctors on visits to different community settings, such as local schools and Sector 10 community projects, to conduct health screenings for students. These visits may also involve providing basic first aid or assisting with healthcare checks at care homes for the elderly and vulnerable. Volunteers can extend their support by helping prepare meals for residents, further contributing to the community. The aim is always to provide as much help as possible to underprivileged local populations.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in India, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in India, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY India team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – Gain invaluable experience during your medical elective in India. Support slum outreach health campaigns, shadow doctors in clinics, observe surgeries, and perform basic health checks as part of this rewarding program. Learn about the local healthcare challenges and compare hospital practices to those in your home country. This is the ultimate medical elective placement for aspiring healthcare professionals.
Nursing – A nursing elective in India is full of diverse experiences. Shadow nurses in hospital settings, assist with slum outreach medical camps, and support doctors during health checks at community clinics. You’ll gain insight into local healthcare practices, learn about prevalent diseases, and observe departments such as paediatrics, emergency, and neurology. Make your nursing elective in India an unforgettable experience!
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a volunteer in India, most participants in the medical program will have the opportunity to experience a variety of facilities. The primary placement for medical volunteers in India will be within the health campaign programs operating in the slum communities. Volunteers can expect to work 3-5 hours in the mornings, typically from 9:30am to 1pm. Observing surgeries may be possible at different times during the day. Afternoons can be spent engaging in other placement settings or exploring the vibrant city of Delhi.
To maximise the experience, volunteers are encouraged to spend at least three days at a specific placement. This helps build relationships with the staff, often resulting in greater exposure and more responsibilities. However, the level of involvement will ultimately depend on each volunteer’s qualifications and experience.
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Other Things to Consider As A Medical Volunteer in India
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Top PMGY Medical Program – The medical volunteer work in India is rated as PMGY’s top overseas medical program due to the extensive exposure and variety of projects offered. Open to everyone from school leavers to those with no formal medical training, this program provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in underprivileged communities. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or simply have an interest in healthcare, this experience is accessible and rewarding.
Hands-On Involvement – The level of hands-on involvement at medical volunteer abroad projects depends on several factors, including your medical background, the length of your program, and your willingness to participate. The medical staff overseeing your work decides upon the extent of your involvement, ensuring all procedures are carried out responsibly.
Some previous participants in the medical volunteer in India program have been allowed to administer IV injections, dress wounds, and perform other basic tasks. However, hands-on involvement cannot be guaranteed, regardless of your experience. Volunteers without medical training typically take on observational roles, while those pursuing medical studies may have the opportunity for more direct participation under supervision.
Trained Professionals – This program is not designed for trained professionals looking to practise medicine overseas. It is specifically tailored for school leavers and medical students who wish to learn about healthcare systems abroad and gain experience in a supportive environment.
Photos – Please note that photography is not allowed in clinical areas. Patients are often in vulnerable situations, and taking photos can compromise their privacy and dignity. Even if you witness something memorable or medically interesting, capturing images is not appropriate. You are welcome to take general photos outside of clinical settings, but always follow local guidance and respect the privacy of staff, patients, and the wider community.
Group Medical Trips – PMGY offers affordable group trips to India for academic institutions and societies worldwide. With free travel for group leaders, these 15-day trips are fully structured and inclusive, led by experienced PMGY staff. Planning large group trips can be challenging, involving logistics such as flights, insurance, and pre-trip preparation. PMGY specialises in organising seamless group expeditions, offering trusted medical placements and full-board accommodation for students. Participants benefit from a rich, immersive experience that includes insight into healthcare challenges, exposure to local practices, and valuable learning opportunities.
Project Flexibility – As a volunteer in India, you might have the opportunity to join other India volunteer programs. However, this depends on the availability of space to avoid overcrowding, which could limit opportunities for meaningful involvement. Priority is always given to those specifically signed up for a particular program in India, so while flexibility is possible, it’s not guaranteed.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Explore India’s cultural treasures with a weekend trip to Jaipur and Agra, home to iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and Agra Fort. Wander through the Pink City, enjoy sunset views at Jal Mahal, and soak in the rich history and architecture of Northern India.
Getting There
• 6 hours by private taxi or train
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Amber Fort – 5 GBP
• Light & Sound Show at Amber Fort – 2 GBP
• Taj Mahal – 10 GBP
• Exploring the Pink City – Included
• Agra Fort – 6 GBP
A weekend in Rishikesh offers the perfect balance of spirituality and adventure. Explore iconic bridges, riverside temples, cafés, and the Beatles Ashram, then unwind with yoga or meditation before enjoying white water rafting or ziplining on day two.
Getting There
• 7 hours by private taxi
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• River Rafting – 6–15 GBP depending on length
• Ziplining – 15 GBP
Escape the bustle of Delhi with a peaceful trip to Dharamshala. Home of the Dalai Lama, this hill station offers breathtaking Himalayan scenery, fresh mountain air, Tibetan culture, and opportunities to hike, relax, and explore.
Getting There
• 10 hours by coach
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Triund Trek – 12 GBP
• Bhagsu Waterfall – Free
• Tibetan Museum – 1 GBP
• Cooking Lesson – 5 GBP
Pushkar is the perfect weekend getaway for spiritual charm and desert beauty. Explore temples, bazaars, and Pushkar Lake, or take in stunning views from Savitri Temple at sunrise. Camel rides and desert dinners complete the experience.
Getting There
• 7 hours by train
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Camel Safari – 7 GBP
• Desert Safari and Dinner – 13 GBP
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience. Enjoy sunrise boat rides on the Ganges, explore ancient temples, wander through narrow alleys, and witness the powerful Ganga Aarti at night.
Getting There
• 10 hours by public train
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Morning Boat Ride – 2.5 GBP
• Private Boat Ride – 15 GBP
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- Three women explore a historic monument’s steps, capturing friendship and curiosity in warm natural light.
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- Friends enjoying a joyful moment in front of the stunning Taj Mahal during a serene visit.
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- A young woman captures the stunning architecture of an Indian heritage gateway at a historic site.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
On the India volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in the centre of Faridabad, a satellite city around 15 miles south of Delhi. Restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs are just a short tuk tuk ride away.
The Volunteer House is spacious and comfortable, with volunteers from around the world staying together and sharing the experience. There are communal areas for relaxing and socialising, as well as fridge space for keeping food and drinks cool. Handwashing facilities are available for clothes, with a laundry service also available for a small fee.
Free Wi-Fi is available at the Volunteer House, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers can also purchase a local SIM card for use with an unlocked mobile phone. Power cuts can occur from time to time in India and typically last no more than a couple of hours.
Both shared and private room options are available within the Volunteer House. All bedrooms have fans and bed linen is provided. We recommend bringing a small padlock for personal belongings, while valuables can also be stored securely with the local team.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so the local team provides daily transport to and from your placement by tuk tuk or minivan. The cost of this transport is included in your Program Fee. The Volunteer House is located on the same campus as the host family who coordinate the projects, giving volunteers regular opportunities to interact with the local team and experience local hospitality.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option provides a social way to experience life at the Volunteer House. Bedrooms are arranged dorm style and separated by gender, with up to 8 volunteers sharing a room. Living alongside other participants makes it easy to get to know the group and settle into the volunteer community.
Bathrooms are shared with other volunteers, with ample bathroom facilities available throughout the Volunteer House. These include western style toilets and showers. Hot water is not available. This is our standard accommodation option and is particularly popular with younger volunteers who enjoy the communal experience of living with other participants.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer additional privacy, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within the Volunteer House. This gives you your own space to relax while still enjoying the communal areas and social experience of living alongside other volunteers.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together and contain 2 single beds. Bathrooms are generally shared, with ample bathroom facilities containing western style toilets and showers available throughout the Volunteer House. Hot water is not available. Depending on participant numbers and availability, we may occasionally be able to allocate a bathroom for sole use, but this is not guaranteed and should be considered an additional benefit where available.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1 Hour
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to India, you will be served three freshly prepared meals daily. Most dishes are traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine, made with a variety of flavours while ensuring they are not too spicy. Occasionally, the local team may prepare western options such as pasta or vegetarian burgers. Filtered water is available at the Volunteer House free of charge.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Cereal, Milk, Bread, Jams, Fruit, Juice
Lunch
Mixed Rice, Vegetables, Curries, Chapati, Soup
Dinner
Vegetarian Burgers, Pizza, Momo
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes medical volunteers in India of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 17, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in India will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a India medical volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the medical projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the India medical program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to India, you should book your flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport – Delhi (airport code DEL) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a India medical volunteer.
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to India, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a India medical volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the India medical volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous India medical volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in India. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore India’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our India medical volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in India, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a India medical volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a India medical volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
