The Parliament has approved the National Dental Commission Bill 2023, signalling a significant step towards improving healthcare quality and aligning dental education with global standards. This emphasizes the government's strong commitment to ensuring excellent dental care for its citizens. The bill introduces the National Dental Commission (NDC), replacing the existing Dental Council of India (DCI) and repealing the Dentists Bill of 1948. The NDC aims to revamp dental education and the profession to meet international standards.
National Dental Commission Bill 2023: 5 Notable Features
Constitution of National Dental Commission and State Dental Councils: The legislation institutes the National Dental Commission while also requiring the creation of State Dental Councils or collaborative Joint Dental Councils. This organizational framework seeks to decentralize power and bolster efficient regulatory practices.
Fixed Tenure and Professional Development: The legislation will establish a set period during which the Chairperson, Members, and Secretary of the Commission will serve, and they will not be eligible for reappointment. The NDC will prioritize proactive and precautionary dental healthcare services, while also concentrating on nurturing the interpersonal abilities essential for the professional progress of dentists and dental assistants.
Online National Register and Dental Advisory Council: The legislation will enable the establishment of a real-time digital National Registry of authorized dentists and dental assistants. Additionally, it forms a Dental Advisory Council comprising members from every State/Union Territory, ensuring inclusive perspectives and direction.
Three Autonomous Boards: The legislation will grant authority to three separate Autonomous Boards: The Board for Dental Education at the Undergraduate and Postgraduate Levels, the Dental Assessment and Rating Board (DARB), and the Ethics and Dental Registration Board (EDRB). These boards will be responsible for distinct tasks, collectively contributing to a thorough regulatory structure.
Industry Collaboration and Technological Innovation: Acknowledging the significance of cooperation and scholarly investigation, the legislation will stimulate alliances with both industry and academic establishments to boost progress in dental research. Furthermore, it underscores the incorporation of state-of-the-art technology into dental education.
The enactment of the National Dental Commission Act 2023 is set to bring about crucial changes in the field of dental education. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, responsibility, and professionalism to protect the public's interests. Through its efforts to increase the accessibility of affordable oral healthcare and improve the global employability of Indian dental practitioners, the Commission aims to elevate dental care standards within the country and around the world.
