NMC Proposes Critical Amendments to AFMS Medical License Regulations 2026

The National Medical Commission (NMC) recently issued a draft notification introducing significant amendments to the "Registration of Medical Practitioners and Licence to Practice Medicine Regulations, 2023". These proposed changes, titled the "Medical Practitioners' Registration and License to Practice Medicine (Amendment) Regulations, 2026," specifically address medical practitioners serving in the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS). Consequently, doctors within the AFMS must understand these updates to ensure compliance and continued practice across India. This article outlines the key modifications introduced in the draft regulations.

Understanding the Amended Definition of AFMS

The draft regulations propose adding a new clause (aa) to Regulation 2, which explicitly defines "Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS)." It clarifies that AFMS refers to the integrated medical services of the Indian Armed Forces, operating under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Furthermore, AFMS is responsible for providing medical care to serving personnel, veterans, their dependents, and other mandated individuals. This clear definition establishes the scope of the regulations' applicability.

Streamlined Registration and Practice for AFMS Doctors

Crucially, Regulation 6 introduces a new proviso concerning registration and licensing for AFMS medical practitioners. Upon commissioning or joining the AFMS, doctors will now have the option to register and obtain an AFMS medical license with a State Medical Council of their choice. This registration remains valid throughout their service duration, authorizing them to practice in any State or Union Territory in India due to service obligations. Subsequently, upon retirement or release from service, these practitioners must register with or transfer their registration to the State Medical Council where they intend to practice. This provision simplifies cross-state practice for AFMS personnel, enhancing operational flexibility. Learn more about medical registration in India.

Simplified Additional Qualifications and License Renewal

Regulation 7 sees an important amendment concerning additional medical qualifications. AFMS medical practitioners can now register any additional medical qualifications with their chosen State Medical Council during their service. Importantly, this entry will remain valid across all States and Union Territories for the entire duration of their AFMS service. Additionally, Regulation 8 provides a significant concession regarding license renewal; specifically, the license of AFMS medical practitioners will not be rendered inactive solely due to a delayed renewal application. The AFMS will instead furnish annual details of commissioned medical practitioners, including renewal applications, to the concerned State Medical Council and the NMC. Therefore, AFMS doctors benefit from reduced administrative burden.

Jurisdiction for Professional Misconduct Cases

A new Regulation 10A outlines the jurisdiction for alleged professional misconduct or medical negligence cases involving AFMS medical practitioners. Notwithstanding other regulations, the State Medical Council where the practitioner is registered holds the jurisdiction to decide the matter, based on the recommendation of the State Medical Council within whose territorial jurisdiction the cause of action arose. Should the alleged misconduct occur in a state other than the registration state, the State Medical Council of the occurrence place can receive the complaint, inquire into it, and forward its report with recommendations to the registration state's medical council. Consequently, this ensures accountability while recognizing the unique nature of AFMS service. However, it is important to note that these regulations do not preclude disciplinary or administrative action under applicable Armed Forces service laws.

Providing Your Feedback on the Draft Regulations

The NMC Act, 2019, empowers the Commission to make these regulations. The NMC has published these draft amendments for public information, inviting objections and suggestions from all stakeholders. Consequently, individuals can submit feedback within thirty days from the publication date of the Gazette of India notification. Objections and suggestions should be sent via email to regn_regulations_amend_2026@nmc.org.in or by postal mail to the Deputy Secretary (Reg-EMRB), NMC, New Delhi. This process allows for public participation in shaping the final regulations. Therefore, interested parties should review the complete draft on the NMC website (www.nmc.org.in) and submit their valuable input.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only... Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. National Medical Commission. Medical Practitioners' Registration and License to Practice Medicine (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (Draft Notification). The Gazette of India. April 7, 2026.
2. National Medical Commission. Registration of Medical Practitioners and Licence to Practice Medicine Regulations, 2023. Published May 10, 2023. Available at: https://www.nmc.org.in/regulations/Registration%20of%20Medical%20Practitioners%20and%20License%20to%20Practice%20Medicine%20Regulations,%202023.pdf.
3. KanoonGPT. Section 57: Power To Make Regulations - NMC Act. Available at: https://www.kanoongpt.com/bare-acts/nmc-act/section-57-of-nmc-act.