National Commission for Indian System of Medicine has introduced the “National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (Recognition of Qualifications) Regulations, 2023.” These regulations have come into force from November 28, 2023.
The focus of these regulations is to establish a comprehensive framework for recognizing qualifications awarded by degree-awarding bodies in India for Indian Systems of Medicine, including Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Sowa-Rigpa.
According to the newly released guidelines, the degree-awarding bodies established in India, approved by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine or the erstwhile Central Council of Indian Medicine, are required to apply for the recognition of medical qualifications. The application process involves online submission through specified forms available on the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine’s website.
The concerned Board, whether Ayurveda or Unani, Siddha, and Sowa-Rigpa, will scrutinize the applications based on various criteria, including the approval status of the medical institute or university, compliance with specified regulations, duration of the courses, curriculum adherence, and evaluation systems.
In case of any deficiencies identified during the verification process, the degree-awarding body will be notified and required to rectify the issues within a specified timeframe. Upon rectification, if the application meets the necessary criteria, the Board will notify the recognition. However, if the deficiencies persist, the application may be rejected with reasons provided.
Once a medical qualification receives recognition, the respective Board will include it in a separate list, maintaining details such as the date of effect of recognition. This list will be communicated to all states and union territory administrations, ensuring transparency and accessibility.
The regulations also outline procedures for the recognition of medical qualifications obtained outside India. Universities or medical institutions abroad, authorized by the apex bodies or regulatory authorities in their respective countries, are eligible to apply through an online portal, subject to scrutiny by the Commission.
The Commission emphasizes a fair and transparent process, ensuring that recognized medical qualifications meet the specified criteria and adhere to the regulations set by the Commission.