Parliament passes National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Bill 2023 for comprehensive reforms in the sector
Several crucial provisions to elevate the standards of nursing education and
services, enhance professional conduct, and ensure greater transparency and
accountability introduced
In a landmark
move aimed at bringing transformative changes to the nursing education and
practice landscape, the Parliament has passed the National Nursing and
Midwifery Commission (NNMC) Bill, 2023. The Act will replace the existing Indian
Nursing Council with a modern regulatory structure, marking a significant
legislative reform in the sector.
The NNMC Act, 2023, will introduce several crucial
provisions to elevate the standards of nursing education and services, enhance
professional conduct, and ensure greater transparency and accountability. The
key highlights of the proposed Act are as follows:
1. Establishment
of National and State Commissions: Under the NNMC Act, a National
Nursing and Midwifery Commission and Autonomous Boards at the National level
will be established. Corresponding State Nursing and Midwifery Commissions will
also be set up to regulate and maintain education and service standards,
oversee professional conduct, and manage online and live Registers.
2. Tenure and
Accountability: One of the pivotal reforms introduced by the Act will
be the provision of fixed tenures for members and the chairperson of the
Commission, eliminating reappointment and preventing vested interests. This
measure ensures transparency and accountability among regulators in the nursing
education sector. The Act will also grant the government the authority to issue
directions to the Commission in the interest of the public.
3. Uniform
Admission Process and Competence: The National Commission will implement
a standardized admission process to ensure consistency across nursing
education. Moreover, it will focus on maintaining the competence of nursing and
midwifery professionals to ensure high-quality healthcare services.
4. Embracing
Innovation and Collaboration: The NNMC Act will encourage the use of
cutting-edge technology and innovation in nursing education. The Commission
will collaborate with industry and other institutions to foster synergy,
excellence, and research in the nursing field.
5. Development
of Soft Skills and Specialized Courses: The Act will emphasize on the
development of soft skills among registered professionals and recognizes
specialized courses and certification programs in nursing and midwifery. This
move aims to enhance the expertise of nursing professionals in various domains.
6. Global
Mobility and Expertise: The NNMC Act will seek to facilitate global
mobility and employability of Indian nurses by inviting foreign experts and
domain specialists to participate in the National Commission's meetings. This
international collaboration will contribute to enhancing the skills and
expertise of Indian nurses.
7. National
Advisory Council and Coordination: The Act will provide for the
formation of a National Advisory Council to ensure balanced representation from
all states and Union Territories. This Council will offer advice on matters
related to nursing education, services, training, and research. Additionally,
joint sittings with relevant statutory bodies, including the National Medical
Commission, Pharmacy Council of India, National Commission for Allied and
Healthcare Professions, National Commission of Indian system of Medicine, and
National Commission of Homeopathy, will promote a team-based approach to healthcare
delivery.
The passing of National Nursing and Midwifery Commission
Bill 2023, signifies a major step towards elevating nursing education and
practice standards, fostering innovation, and enhancing collaboration across
the healthcare sector. It is a crucial milestone that underscores the
government's commitment to nurturing a highly skilled and competent nursing
workforce, thus ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services to the
nation.