The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act, 2020
The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act, 2020 is a significant legislation enacted to regulate and promote the education and practice of Indian traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Sowa-Rigpa.
📘 Objective of the Act
To establish the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM),
To regulate medical education, professional standards, and ethical practices in the Indian systems of medicine,
To promote accessibility and quality in traditional medicine education and practice.
🗓️ Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Bill introduced in Lok Sabha | 10 March 2020 |
| Passed by Lok Sabha | 17 March 2020 |
| Passed by Rajya Sabha | 20 March 2020 |
| President’s assent | 25 September 2020 |
| Came into force | 26 September 2020 |
📊 Summary Table: Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Regulate education, practice, and research in Indian systems of medicine |
| Commission Established | National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) |
| Systems Covered | Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Sowa-Rigpa |
| Regulatory Bodies | NCISM, along with autonomous boards for education and assessment |
| Functions | Develop standards, curriculum, assessment, registration, and ethics |
| Replaces | Indian Medicine Central Council Act, 1970 |
| Medical Register | Maintains national register of practitioners |
| Autonomous Boards | Board of Ayurveda, Board of Unani, Siddha & Sowa-Rigpa |
| Disciplinary Authority | Power to take disciplinary action against practitioners |
| Quality Control | Sets minimum standards for education institutions and practitioners |
🏛️ Key Provisions
National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM):
Acts as the apex regulatory body.
Oversees education, training, registration, and professional standards.
Autonomous Boards:
Separate Boards for Ayurveda and for Unani, Siddha & Sowa-Rigpa systems.
These Boards develop curricula, conduct exams, and maintain standards.
Medical Register:
A national register of practitioners is maintained to ensure transparency and regulation.
Only registered practitioners are legally allowed to practice.
Regulation of Medical Education:
Sets standards and guidelines for establishment, maintenance, and recognition of educational institutions.
Accreditation and quality assurance through periodic inspections.
Ethics and Professional Conduct:
Lays down a code of conduct for practitioners.
Takes disciplinary action in cases of professional misconduct.
Advisory Role:
Advises the Central Government on matters related to Indian systems of medicine.
🎯 Significance
| For Traditional Medicine | For Healthcare System |
|---|---|
| Streamlines regulation | Brings transparency and accountability |
| Encourages quality education | Integrates traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare |
| Protects practitioners | Ensures ethical and professional standards |
| Boosts global credibility | Supports research and innovation |
📝 Background
The Act replaces the earlier Indian Medicine Central Council Act, 1970, which was criticized for inefficiency and lack of transparency.
It aligns with the government’s vision to strengthen the AYUSH sector (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy).
Part of a broader reform to modernize and regulate traditional medicine.
⚖️ Impact
Unified regulatory framework across Indian systems of medicine.
Enhances the quality of education and practice.
Facilitates the inclusion of traditional medicine in national health policy.
Protects patients’ interests by ensuring qualified practitioners.
✅ Conclusion
The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act, 2020 marks a transformative step to regulate and promote Indian traditional medical systems. It creates a robust framework for governance, education, and ethical practice, aiming to preserve and popularize India’s rich medical heritage while ensuring quality and accountability. Do write to us if you need any further assistance.
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