The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has proposed a comprehensive regulatory framework for the provisional registration of eligible allied and healthcare professionals, with defined pathways for skill upgradation, competency assessment and transition to regular registration.
The proposed framework aims to standardise professional registration, improve transparency and accountability, and provide eligible practitioners with structured opportunities to enhance their qualifications and competencies in line with prescribed standards.
In this regard, NCAHP has invited comments, suggestions and objections from stakeholders on the Draft Provisional Registration of Allied and Healthcare Professionals Regulations, 2026, framed under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021.
Structured Pathway to Regular Registration
A key feature of the proposed Regulations is the introduction of a standardised mechanism for provisional registration, supported by prescribed eligibility criteria, credential verification and defined registration procedures.
The framework also provides opportunities for eligible provisionally registered professionals to undertake prescribed bridge courses for skill enhancement, supervised clinical training and minimum qualifying examinations, wherever applicable, to meet the requirements for regular registration.
Through this competency-based approach, NCAHP aims to promote continuous professional development, facilitate career progression and strengthen the quality of allied and healthcare services.
Emphasis on Professional Competence and Healthcare Standards
The proposed Regulations place emphasis on skill development, professional competence and regulatory accountability.
By linking progression to regular registration with prescribed educational qualifications and competency requirements, the framework seeks to ensure that allied and healthcare professionals possess the necessary knowledge, skills and clinical competencies to deliver quality healthcare services.
The initiative is expected to support the development of a more skilled, organised and professionally accountable workforce while reinforcing patient safety and healthcare delivery standards.
Digital Registration System for Greater Transparency
The draft Regulations also envisage an integrated online registration system to streamline application submission, credential verification, eligibility assessment and the issuance of provisional registration certificates.
Professionals granted provisional registration will be issued a Provisional Registration Unique Identification Number (PR UID), enabling systematic identification and regulatory oversight.
The digital mechanism is intended to simplify registration procedures, improve accessibility and promote transparency, efficiency and 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, credential verification and issuance of registration certificates with unique identification numbers.
- Defined provisions governing the validity, extension and termination of provisional registration, as well as appeals.
- Prescribed bridge courses for skill enhancement, competency assessments and qualifying examinations, wherever applicable.
- Supervised clinical training and institutional requirements for professional skill development.
- Transition to regular registration in the appropriate Central or State Register, subject to fulfilment of prescribed conditions.
Together, these provisions seek to establish a transparent and competency-based registration system that supports professional development while maintaining standards of healthcare delivery.
Stakeholders Can Submit Comments by 4 December 2026
NCAHP has invited feedback on the draft Regulations from allied and healthcare professionals, professional associations, educational institutions, State Allied and Healthcare Councils, healthcare institutions, experts and members of the public. Stakeholders can submit their comments, suggestions and objections by 4 December 2026.
The Commission will consider the feedback received before finalising the Regulations.
The proposed framework marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s allied and healthcare workforce to meet the country’s evolving healthcare needs.
