The Union Cabinet has approved key changes to the National Medical Commission Bill, removing a provision which allowed for traditional medics like ayurvedic and unani practitioners to practice modern medicine after completing a “bridge course”.

Observing the need to act strictly against unqualified practitioners, the government approved an amendment to make the punishment for any unauthorised practice of medicine “severe” by including a provision for the imprisonment of up to one year along with a fine extending to up to Rs five lakh.

BCCL