Why in the News?

The Lok Sabha recently witnessed the introduction of the National Dental Commission Bill, 2023, by the government. 

About National Dental Commission Bill, 2023:

• The primary objective of the Bill is to revoke the Dentists Act of 1948, ushering in new regulations and reforms.
• With a focus on affordability, the bill strives to enhance dental education accessibility and ensure quality oral healthcare services.
• In place of the existing Dental Council of India, the Bill proposes the establishment of the National Dental Commission (NDC) to oversee dental education and related matters effectively.

What is National Dental Commission (NDC)?

• The establishment of the new commission entails the formulation of policies and the maintenance of quality standards in dental education and the dental profession.
• A key responsibility of the commission will be to regulate fees for 50% of seats in private dental colleges.

Composition of NDC:

• The structure of the NDC will mirror that of the National Medical Commission (NMC), which replaced the Medical Council of India.
• The head office of the National Dental Commission will be located in New Delhi, consisting of a chairperson, eight ex officio members, and 24 part-time members and the appointment of members will be done by the central government.
• The Bill mandates that all members of the commission must declare their assets and liabilities upon entering and leaving office, along with disclosing any professional and commercial engagements they are involved in.