Compulsory service programmes for MBBS students have existed for many years in India and other parts of the world. Such programmes have been referred to differently as "obligatory", "mandatory", "requisite" and "compulsory" service. Governments look at these programmes as a means to deploy and retain the health workforce even as health professionals are lost to opportunities in other countries. Though these programmes have been successful, they have been carried out by enforcement on medical students to finish a rural bond.