National Medical Commission (NMC)

News: Recently, the Supreme Court struck down the National Medical Commission (NMC)’s eligibility condition requiring MBBS aspirants with disabilities to have “both hands intact, with intact sensation and sufficient strength.”

About National Medical Commission (NMC)

• The National Medical Commission (NMC) is the statutory body established under the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, replacing the Medical Council of India (MCI).
• It is a regulatory body responsible for overseeing medical education and the medical profession in India.
• Objectives of NMC:
  • Regulation of Medical Education: It ensures uniform standards in medical education, both undergraduate (MBBS) and postgraduate (MD/MS).
  • Assessment and Accreditation: It oversees the assessment, accreditation, and recognition of medical institutions across India.
  • Licensing and Registration: It maintains a National Register of Medical Practitioners and regulates medical licenses.
  • Improving Access to Healthcare: It enhances the availability of medical professionals in rural and underserved areas.
  • Professional Ethics and Standards: It ensures ethical medical practice and adherence to professional conduct.
  • Fee Regulation: It oversees the structure of fees in private medical colleges for transparency and affordability.
  • Encouraging Research and Innovation: It promotes scientific advancements and innovation in the healthcare sector.
• Composition of NMC
  • Total:25 members, with the majority appointed by the Central Government.
  • Tenure: Four years, Part-time members: Two years.
  • 11 part-time members represent states or state medical councils.
  • The chairperson and other members nominated by the Central Government are not eligible for renomination.
  • Any decision by the Commission requires the approval of at least 13 out of its 25 members.