Centre Proposes New Registration Framework to Strengthen Allied and Healthcare Professions
NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 11: In a significant move aimed at strengthening India's allied and healthcare workforce, the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), functioning under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has proposed a comprehensive regulatory framework for the provisional registration of eligible allied and healthcare professionals.
The proposed Draft Provisional Registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals Regulations, 2026, seek to establish a transparent, uniform and accountable registration mechanism, while providing structured opportunities for professional development, skill enhancement and transition to regular registration.
The draft regulations have been formulated under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021. The Commission has invited comments, suggestions and objections from stakeholders and the general public before finalising the proposed framework.
Structured Pathway for Registration and Professional Growth
A key feature of the proposed regulations is the introduction of a standardised mechanism for provisional registration, supported by clearly defined eligibility criteria, verification of credentials and prescribed registration procedures.
The framework aims to ensure that professional recognition is granted in accordance with statutory requirements and established competency standards.
It also provides for eligible provisionally registered professionals to undertake prescribed bridge courses, supervised clinical training and minimum qualifying examinations, wherever applicable, to fulfil the requirements for regular registration.
The proposed measures are intended to facilitate professional advancement, strengthen practical competencies and encourage continuous learning among allied and healthcare professionals.
Focus on Professional Competence and Patient Safety
The draft regulations place particular emphasis on skill development, professional competence and regulatory accountability.
By linking eligibility for regular registration with prescribed educational qualifications and competency requirements, the proposed framework seeks to ensure that healthcare professionals possess the necessary knowledge, practical skills and clinical capabilities to deliver quality services.
The initiative is also expected to contribute towards developing a more organised, skilled and professionally accountable workforce, while reinforcing patient safety and improving standards of healthcare delivery.
Integrated Digital System to Streamline Registration
To enhance transparency and administrative efficiency, the proposed regulations envisage an integrated online registration system for application submission, verification of credentials, assessment of eligibility and issuance of provisional registration certificates.
Professionals granted provisional registration will receive a Provisional Registration Unique Identification Number (PR UID), facilitating systematic identification and regulatory monitoring.
The digital mechanism is designed to simplify registration procedures, improve accessibility and promote uniformity across States and Union Territories.
Key Provisions of the Draft Regulations
The proposed framework includes standardised eligibility criteria and procedures for provisional registration, online applications and credential verification, and the issuance of registration certificates with unique identification numbers.
It also outlines provisions governing the validity, extension and termination of provisional registration, along with an appeal mechanism.
Other key provisions include prescribed bridge courses, competency assessments, qualifying examinations, supervised clinical training and institutional requirements for professional skill development.
Eligible professionals may transition to regular registration in the appropriate Central or State Register upon fulfilling the prescribed conditions.
Stakeholder Comments Invited by December 4
As part of its participatory regulatory process, NCAHP has invited comments, suggestions and objections from allied and healthcare professionals, professional associations, educational institutions, State Allied and Healthcare Councils, healthcare institutions, experts and members of the public.
The draft regulations are available on the Commission's official website at https://ncahp.abdm.gov.in/.
Stakeholders can submit their feedback through email at ncahp.regulations@ncahp.mohfw.gov.in by December 4, 2026.
The Commission will consider the feedback received before finalising the regulations.
The proposed framework represents an effort to establish a more transparent, inclusive and competency-based regulatory system for India's allied and healthcare professions, while creating better opportunities for professional development and strengthening the country's healthcare workforce to address evolving public health requirements.ANB
