The National Dental Commission Bill, 2023 has been introduced to modernise the regulatory framework that governs dental education and practice in India. This Bill aims to replace the Dentists Act of 1948, which, though comprehensive in its time, no longer reflects the advancements and needs of contemporary dental care and education.
Background and Rationale
The Dentists Act of 1948 served as the foundational legislation for dental education, professional conduct, and institutional recognition in India. It gave the government authority to establish dental colleges, expand educational access, and increase student enrollment. It also defined key roles such as dentists, dental hygienists, and mechanics, and empowered the Dental Council of India (DCI) to regulate degrees, maintain practitioner registries, and ensure institutional compliance.
However, with evolving healthcare demands and technological advancements, the 1948 Act became outdated. The National Dental Commission Bill, 2023, introduced by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, seeks to address these limitations and bring India's dental system up to global standards.
Legislative Journey
Initially drafted in 2020, the Bill faced delays across multiple parliamentary sessions. Although it was slated for introduction during the Winter Session of 2022, it is now expected to be tabled during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Key Provisions of the 2023 Bill
1. Expanded Scope of Dental Care
Unlike the 1948 Act, which focused primarily on tooth restoration and replacement, the new Bill widens the scope to encompass a broader range of oral healthcare services.
2. Establishment of the National Dental Commission (NDC)
The NDC will serve as the apex body for regulating dental education and practice across India. It will comprise 30 members, including a chairperson, 7 ex-officio members, and 22 part-time members. The Dental Advisory Council will support the NDC and act as a platform for states and union territories to provide feedback on education and training matters.
3. Functions of the NDC
Outlined in Chapter II, the Commission will:
-
Formulate policies to regulate dental institutions, research, and professionals.
-
Assess national oral healthcare needs and develop strategies to meet them.
-
Establish regulatory frameworks for curriculum and professional standards.
4. Standardised Examinations
The Bill introduces:
-
A common entrance exam (NEET) for undergraduate admissions.
-
A National Exit Test (NEXT), mandatory for licensure and postgraduate admissions, including for foreign-trained dentists.
5. Autonomous Boards (Chapter VI)
Four boards will function under the NDC:
-
Undergraduate Dental Education Board – Sets standards for BDS programs.
-
Postgraduate Dental Education Board – Oversees quality in MDS education.
-
Dental Assessment and Rating Board – Rates dental colleges and approves seat increases or new institutions.
-
Ethics and Dental Registration Board – Maintains the professional register and enforces ethical guidelines.
6. State and National Registers
States must establish State Dental Councils within a year of enactment. The National Register for Dentists will be updated in real time and include qualifications and licensure status, accessible online.
7. Ethics and Professional Standards
A core goal of the Bill is to instil a culture of ethical behaviour and accountability among dental professionals, ensuring high standards of patient care.
Noteworthy Features
-
Centralised Regulation: The NDC will harmonise standards and facilitate uniformity across states.
-
Unified Qualification Process: Standardised entry and exit tests will improve transparency and comparability of qualifications.
-
Innovation and Research: The Bill encourages evidence-based practices and prioritises dental research.
-
Anti-Tobacco Initiatives: A provision promotes a broader vision of oral wellness, including public health campaigns against tobacco use.
Concerns and Challenges
Despite its strengths, the Bill presents several concerns that may require further deliberation:
-
Centralised Appointments and Representation
-
The central government has significant control over appointments to the NDC, raising concerns over autonomy and regional representation.
-
-
Bureaucratic Redundancy and Costs
-
Critics argue that creating a separate dental commission, despite the existence of the National Medical Commission, could lead to unnecessary bureaucracy and financial strain, especially during economic downturns.
-
-
Implementation Challenges
-
Establishing the NDC and its autonomous boards will require robust infrastructure, funding, and stakeholder coordination.
-
Conclusion
The National Dental Commission Bill, 2023 represents a bold step toward revitalising India’s dental education and healthcare system. Through unified exams, ethical oversight, real-time licensure tracking, and the promotion of research and innovation, it aims to enhance the quality and consistency of dental services nationwide. However, its successful implementation will depend on addressing concerns related to autonomy, feasibility, and centralised control.