New Delhi, 08 Aug 2023: In a significant stride towards advancing healthcare standards and education in India, the Rajya Sabha today has given its resounding approval to the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Bill 2023 and the National Dental Commission Bill 2023. These visionary bills, which have already received the green light from the Lok Sabha, signal a renewed commitment by the government to enhance medical education and services across the country.
The National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Bill 2023 marks a pivotal moment in the regulation and elevation of nursing and midwifery professions. It aims to establish a robust framework for maintaining and enhancing the quality of education and services provided by these indispensable healthcare practitioners. The passage of this bill underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring that nursing and midwifery professionals receive the necessary support and resources to excel in their vital roles.
Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, emphasized the integral role of nursing, midwifery, and dental care in the realm of medical education. Drawing attention to the comprehensive perspective adopted by the government, he highlighted the establishment of the National Medical Commission and the Allied Healthcare Commission. Mandaviya lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary approach, which prioritizes holistic advancements over mere symbolic gestures.
In tandem with this monumental achievement, the Parliament also gave its seal of approval to the National Dental Commission Bill, 2023. This legislation is poised to revolutionize the field of dentistry in the country by ushering in stringent regulation and ensuring the provision of top-tier dental education. The bill also heralds a departure from the antiquated Dentists Act of 1948, as it paves the way for the establishment of the National Dental Commission, the Dental Advisory Council, and three autonomous Boards vested with the authority to oversee dental education and standards.
At the heart of the National Dental Commission Bill is the creation of a National Dental Commission consisting of 33 distinguished members. Chaired by a seasoned and accomplished dentist, this commission is entrusted with the responsibility of steering the dental profession towards new heights of excellence. A key provision of the bill mandates state governments to establish State Dental Councils within one year of its enactment, reinforcing the commitment to a well-structured dental ecosystem across the nation.
The legislation further mandates the formation of a Dental Advisory Council, which is set to play a pivotal role in advising the National Dental Commission on matters relating to education, training, and research standards. This collaborative approach underscores the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering an environment conducive to innovation and excellence in dental care.
During the deliberations on both bills, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya reiterated the government’s comprehensive approach to medical education. He pointed to the remarkable expansion of MBBS seats from a modest 54,000 to an impressive 107,000 since 2014, along with the proliferation of medical colleges from 350 to an impressive 704. This surge underscores the government’s steadfast commitment to nurturing a healthcare workforce that is second to none.
In summary, the passage of the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Bill 2023 and the National Dental Commission Bill 2023 by the Parliament is a resounding testament to the government’s resolute commitment to elevating healthcare standards and education in India. These bills, championed by the Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, lay the foundation for a future where nursing, midwifery, and dental care stand at the forefront of medical excellence. As the nation embraces this transformative legislative stride, it embarks on a journey towards a healthier and more prosperous tomorrow.
