NMC draft proposes nationwide practice rights for Armed forces doctors

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has proposed amendments to streamline the registration and licensing of doctors serving in the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), granting them nationwide practice rights under a single registration. The draft notification, published on April 7, seeks to modify the 2023 regulations to provide greater operational flexibility to military doctors.

Under the proposal, AFMS practitioners will be allowed to register with any one State Medical Council at the time of joining service, with the registration remaining valid throughout their tenure. This would enable them to practise across all states and Union Territories without the need for multiple registrations, addressing long-standing administrative challenges caused by frequent transfers and repeated fee payments.

The draft further states that doctors will need to either register afresh or transfer their registration after retirement. It also proposes that additional qualifications acquired during service will be recognised nationwide, while licences will not be rendered inactive due to delays in renewal, as AFMS authorities will handle annual submissions .

The proposed changes are expected to improve operational efficiency , reduce financial burden , and enhance mobility of military doctors, enabling better healthcare delivery , especially in remote and sensitive areas. However, concerns remain over regulatory oversight , possible jurisdictional complexities in misconduct cases, and challenges doctors may face while transitioning to civilian practice after service.

The NMC has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders until May 7, after which the draft will be considered for finalisation.