National Dental Commission Bill 2023

National Dental Commission Bill 2023

News: Recently, The Parliament has passed the National Dental Commission Bill, 2023.

What are the key provisions of the Bill?
• It establishes the National Dental Commission (NDC) and mandates State Dental Councils or Joint Dental Councils for decentralized regulation.
• It empowers Under-Graduate and Post-Graduate Dental Education Board, Dental Assessment and Rating Board (DARB), and Ethics and Dental Registration Board (EDRB).
• It advocates for partnerships with industry and institutions for dental research and integrates advanced technology into education.
• It introduces fixed tenures for Chairperson, Members, and Secretary, emphasizing promotive and preventive dental care and soft skills development.
• It establishes an online National Register of licensed Dentists, along with a Dental Advisory Council for comprehensive insights and guidance.
• It appoints NDC Chairman and Members through a merit-based selection process conducted by a Searchcum-Committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary.
• It empowers the commission to frame fee guidelines for private dental colleges, and requires establishment of State Dental Councils or Joint Dental Councils.
• It facilitates joint sittings with relevant bodies like National Medical Commission, Pharmacy Council, Nursing Council etc.

Conclusion
• The National Dental Commission Act 2023, is poised to usher in vital regulatory reforms in the dental education sector.
• It champions transparency, accountability, and professionalism to safeguard the interests of the public.
• By promoting affordable oral healthcare availability and boosting the employability of Indian dental professionals globally, the Commission is set to enhance both domestic and international dental care standards.