Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
The National Dental Commission Act, 2023, aims to regulate the profession of dentistry in India, providing for quality and affordable dental education, ensuring accessible oral healthcare, and promoting ethical practices.
1: Act Background and Ministry Under Which This Act Is:
The National Dental Commission Act, 2023, was enacted to regulate the profession of dentistry in the country, provide for quality and affordable dental education, make accessible high-quality oral healthcare, and for related matters. This act aims to replace the existing Dental Council of India with a new regulatory framework. The act falls under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which is responsible for overseeing the implementation and enforcement of regulations related to dental education and practice. The ministry plays a crucial role in promoting oral health and maintaining high standards in the profession.
2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The National Dental Commission Act, 2023, was enacted on 11th August, 2023, and is known as Act No. 21 of 2023. The act is structured into eleven chapters. It comprises 61 sections, covering various aspects such as definitions, the constitution of the National Dental Commission, the Dental Advisory Council, Autonomous Boards, national examinations, recognition of dental qualifications, and provisions for finance, audit, and accounts. The act also includes a schedule listing recognized dental qualifications. The act has been amended over time to reflect changing requirements.
3: Act Governed By:
The National Dental Commission Act is governed by the Central Government, which has the power to make rules and regulations under the Act. The National Dental Commission (NDC) is the primary regulatory body at the national level, while State Dental Councils also play a role in implementing the act within their respective jurisdictions. The act is governed by the provisions outlined within it, as well as rules and regulations framed by the Central government. It is therefore a combination of central and state oversight.
4: On Whom It Is Applicable:
The provisions of the National Dental Commission Act are applicable to all individuals and entities involved in the practice of dentistry in India. This includes dentists, dental auxiliaries, dental colleges, dental institutions, and State Dental Councils. The act ensures that all actions and activities are in accordance with the regulations outlined, as well as the act’s mandate and guiding principles. The general public are indirect beneficiaries of the Act’s provisions. The act’s scope covers the entire dental profession.
5: Penalties/Punishments:
The National Dental Commission Act does not specifically lay down penalties or punishments for violation of its provisions. However, the Act empowers the Commission to take action against dental institutions that fail to maintain the prescribed standards. The act also provides for the withdrawal of recognition of dental qualifications and the imposition of monetary penalties. The act ensures accountability through rules, regulations, and supervisory authority. This act therefore prioritizes good governance and public welfare.
6: Important Pointers:
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National Dental Commission (NDC): The act establishes the National Dental Commission as the primary regulatory body.
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Autonomous Boards: It provides for the constitution and functions of various Autonomous Boards to oversee specific areas of dental education and practice.
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Dental Advisory Council: It establishes a Dental Advisory Council to advise the Commission.
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National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET): It mandates a uniform National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for admission to dental education.
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National Exit Test (Dental): It introduces a National Exit Test for granting license to practice dentistry.
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Recognition of Qualifications: It outlines the process for recognizing dental qualifications and training institutions.
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Rule-Making Power: It empowers the Central Government and the Commission to make rules and regulations for carrying out the purposes of the act. The act provides a comprehensive framework for dental regulation.
7: Act Copy: