NCH Act
NCH Act
DL—(N)04/0007/2003—20
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EXTRAORDINARY
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PART II — Section 1
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PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
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No. 40] NEW DELHI, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2020/BHADRA 30, 1942 (SAKA)
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Separate paging is given to this Part in order that it may be filed as a separate compilation.
(r) “State Register” means a State register for Homoeopathy maintained under
any law for the time being in force in any State or Union territory for registration of
practitioners of Homoeopathy;
(s) “University” shall have the same meaning as assigned to it in clause (f) of
3 of 1956. section 2 of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956 and includes a health
university.
CHAPTER II
NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR HOMOEOPATHY
3. (1) The Central Government shall, by notification, constitute a Commission, to be Constitution
known as the National Commission for Homoeopathy, to exercise the powers conferred of National
upon, and to perform the functions assigned to it, under this Act. Commission
for
(2) The Commission shall be a body corporate by the name aforesaid, having perpetual Homoeopathy.
succession and a common seal, with power, subject to the provisions of this Act, to acquire,
hold and dispose of property, both movable and immovable, and to contract, and shall, by
the said name, sue or be sued.
(3) The head office of the Commission shall be at New Delhi.
4. (1) The Commission shall consist of the following persons, namely:–– Composition
of
(a) a Chairperson; Commission.
(b) seven ex officio Members; and
(c) nineteen part-time Members.
(2) The Chairperson shall be a person of outstanding ability, proven administrative
capacity and integrity, possessing a postgraduate degree in Homoeopathy from a recognised
University and having experience of not less than twenty years in the field of Homoeopathy,
out of which at least ten years shall be as a leader in the area of healthcare delivery, growth
and development of Homoeopathy or its education.
(3) The following persons shall be appointed by the Central Government as ex officio
Members of the Commission, namely:––
(a) the President of the Homoeopathy Education Board;
(b) the President of the Medical Assessment and Rating Board for
Homoeopathy;
(c) the President of the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy;
(d) Advisor (Homoeopathy) or Joint Secretary to the Government of India
in-charge of Homoeopathy, in the Ministry of AYUSH;
(e) the Director, National Institute of Homoeopathy, Kolkata;
(f) the Director, North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy, Shillong;
and
(g) the Director-General, Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy,
Janakpuri, New Delhi.
(4) The following persons shall be appointed by the Central Government as part-time
Members of the Commission, namely:—
(a) three Members to be appointed from amongst persons of ability, integrity
and standing, who have special knowledge and professional experience in the areas of
Homoeopathy, management, law, health research, science and technology and
economics;
(b) ten Members to be appointed on rotational basis from amongst the nominees
of the States and Union territories in the Advisory Council for a term of two years in
such manner as may be prescribed.
(c) six members to be appointed from amongst the nominees of the States and
Union territories, under clause (d) of sub-section (2) of section 11, of the Advisory
Council for a term of two years in such manner as may be prescribed:
4 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
Provided that no Member shall either himself or through any of his family members,
directly or indirectly, own or be associated with or have any dealings with the managing body
of a private or non-government medical institution which is regulated under this Act.
Explanation.––For the purpose of this section and section 19, the term “leader”
means the Head of a Department or the Head of an Organisation.
Search 5. (1) The Central Government shall appoint the Chairperson referred to in section 4
committee and the President of the Autonomous Boards referred to in section 20 on the recommendation
for
appointment
of a Search Committee consisting of—
of (a) the Cabinet Secretary—Chairperson;
Chairperson
and Members. (b) two experts, possessing outstanding qualifications and experience of not
less than twenty-five years in the field of Homoeopathy, to be nominated by the
Central Government—Members;
(c) one expert, from amongst the members as referred to in clause (c) of
sub-section (4) of section 4, to be nominated by the Central Government in such
manner as may be prescribed—Member;
(d) one person, possessing outstanding qualifications and experience of not
less than twenty-five years in the field of health research, management, law, economics
or science and technology, to be nominated by the Central Government—Member;
(e) the Secretary to the Government of India incharge of the AYUSH, to be the
Convenor—Member:
Provided that for selection of part-time members of the Commission referred to
in clause (a) of sub-section (4) of section 4, the Secretary referred to in section 8 and
other Members of the Autonomous Boards referred to in section 20, the Search
Committee shall consist of members specified in clauses (b) to (d) and Joint Secretary
to the Government of India in the Ministry of AYUSH as Convenor—Member and
chaired by Secretary to the Government of India in-charge of the Ministry of AYUSH.
(2) The Central Government shall, within one month from the date of occurrence of
any vacancy, including by reason of death, resignation or removal of the Chairperson or a
Member, or within three months before the end of tenure of the Chairperson or Member,
make a reference to the Search Committee for filling up of the vacancy.
(3) The Search Committee shall recommend a panel of at least three names for every
vacancy referred to it.
(4) Before recommending any person for appointment as the Chairperson or a Member
of the Commission, the Search Committee shall satisfy itself that such person does not have
any financial or other interest which is likely to affect prejudicially his functions as such
Chairperson or Member.
(5) No appointment of the Chairperson or Member shall be invalid merely by reason of
any vacancy or absence of a Member in the Search Committee.
(6) Subject to the provisions of sub-sections (2) to (5), the Search Committee may
regulate its own procedure.
Term of 6. (1) The Chairperson and Members (other than ex officio Members) and Members
office and appointed under clause (b) of sub-section (4) of section 4 shall hold office for a term not
conditions of
service of
exceeding four years and shall not be eligible for any extension or re-appointment:
Chairperson Provided that such person shall cease to hold office after attaining the age of seventy
and Members.
years.
(2) The term of office of an ex officio Member shall continue as long as he holds the
office by virtue of which he is such Member.
(3) Where a Member, other than an ex officio Member, is absent from three consecutive
ordinary meetings of the Commission and the cause of such absence is not attributable to
any valid reason in the opinion of the Commission, such Member shall be deemed to have
vacated the seat.
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 5
(4) The salary and allowances payable to, and other terms and conditions of service
of, the Chairperson and Member, other than an ex officio Member, shall be such as may be
prescribed.
(5) The Chairperson or a Member may––
(a) relinquish his office by giving in writing a notice of not less than three
months to the Central Government; or
(b) be removed from his office in accordance with the provisions of section 7:
Provided that such person may be relieved from duties earlier than three months
or allowed to continue beyond three months until a successor is appointed, if the
Central Government so decides.
(6) The Chairperson and every Member of the Commission shall make declaration of
his assets and liabilities at the time of entering upon his office and at the time of demitting his
office and also declare his professional and commercial engagement or involvement, in such
form and manner as may be prescribed, and such declaration shall be published on the
website of the Commission.
(7) The Chairperson or a Member, ceasing to hold office as such, shall not accept, for
a period of two years from the date of demitting such office, any employment, in any capacity,
including as a consultant or an expert, in any private Medical institution of Homoeopathy or,
whose matter has been dealt with by such Chairperson or Member, directly or indirectly:
Provided that nothing contained herein shall be construed as preventing such person
from accepting an employment in a body or institution including Medical institution of
Homoeopathy, controlled or maintained by the Central Government or a State Government.
(8) Nothing in sub-section (7) shall prevent the Central Government from permitting
the Chairperson or a Member to accept any employment in any capacity, including as a
consultant or an expert, in any private Medical Institution of Homoeopathy, whose matter
has been dealt with by such Chairperson or Member.
7. (1) The Central Government may, by order, remove from office the Chairperson or Removal of
any other Member, who— Chairperson
and Members
(a) has been adjudged an insolvent; or of
Commission.
(b) has been convicted of an offence which, in the opinion of the Central
Government, involves moral turpitude; or
(c) has become physically or mentally incapable of acting as the Chairperson or
a Member; or
(d) is of unsound mind and stands so declared by a competent court; or
(e) has acquired such financial or other interest as is likely to affect prejudicially
his functions as a Member; or
(f) has so abused his position as to render his continuance in office prejudicial
to public interest.
(2) No Member shall be removed under clauses (e) and (f) of sub-section (1) unless he
has been given a reasonable opportunity of being heard in the matter.
8. (1) There shall be a Secretariat for the Commission to be headed by a Secretary, to Appointment
be appointed by the Central Government in accordance with the provisions of section 5. of secretary,
experts,
(2) The Secretary of the Commission shall be a person of proven administrative capacity professionals,
and integrity, possessing such qualifications and experience as may be prescribed. officers and
employees of
(3) The Secretary shall be appointed by the Central Government for a term of four Commission.
years and he shall not be eligible for any extension or re-appointment.
6 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
(4) The Secretary shall discharge such functions of the Commission as are assigned
to him by the Commission and as may be specified by regulations made under this Act.
(5) The Commission may appoint such officers and other employees, as it considers
necessary, against the posts created by the Central Government for the efficient discharge
of its functions under this Act.
(6) The salaries and allowances payable to, and other terms and conditions of service
of the Secretary, officers and other employees of the Commission shall be such as may be
prescribed.
(7) The Commission may engage, in accordance with the procedure specified by
regulations, such number of experts and professionals of integrity and outstanding ability,
who have special knowledge of Homoeopathy and experience in fields including medical
education in Homoeopathy, public health, management, economics, accreditation, patient
advocacy, health research, science and technology, administration, finance, accounts or law
as it deems necessary, to assist the Commission in the discharge of its functions under this
Act.
Meetings of 9. (1) The Commission shall meet at least once every quarter at such time and place as
Commission. may be appointed by the Chairperson.
(2) The Chairperson shall preside at the meeting of the Commission and if, for any
reason, the Chairperson is unable to attend a meeting of the Commission, any Member being
the President of the Autonomous Boards, nominated by the Chairperson shall preside at the
meeting.
(3) Unless the procedure to be followed at the meetings of the Commission is otherwise
provided by regulations, one-half of the total number of Members of the Commission including
the Chairperson shall constitute the quorum and all decisions of the Commission shall be
taken by a majority of the members, present and voting and in the event of equality of votes,
the Chairperson or in his absence, the President of the Autonomous Board nominated under
sub-section (2), shall have the casting vote.
(4) The general superintendence, direction and control of the administration of the
Commission shall vest in the Chairperson.
(5) No act or proceeding of the Commission shall be invalid merely by reason of—
(a) any vacancy in, or any defect in the constitution of, the Commission; or
(b) any defect in the appointment of a person acting as a Chairperson or as a
Member.
(6) A person who is aggrieved by any decision of the Commission, except the decision
rendered under sub-section (4) of section 30, may prefer an appeal to the Central Government
against such decision within fifteen days of the communication of such decision.
Power and 10. (1) The Commission shall perform the following functions, namely:—
functions of
Commission. (a) lay down policies for maintaining a high quality and high standards in
education of Homoeopathy and make necessary regulations in this behalf;
(b) lay down policies for regulating medical institutions, medical researches and
medical professionals and make necessary regulations in this behalf;
(c) assess the requirements in healthcare, including human resources for health
and healthcare infrastructure and develop a road map for meeting such requirements;
(d) frame guidelines and lay down policies by making such regulations as may
be necessary for the proper functioning of the Commission, the Autonomous Boards
and the State Medical Councils of Homoeopathy;
(e) ensure coordination among the Autonomous Boards;
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 7
(f) take such measures, as may be necessary, to ensure compliance by the State
Medical Councils of Homoeopathy of the guidelines framed and regulations made
under this Act for their effective functioning under this Act;
(g) exercise appellate jurisdiction with respect to decisions of the Autonomous
Boards;
(h) make regulations to ensure observance of professional ethics in Medical
profession and to promote ethical conduct during the provision of care by medical
practitioners;
(i) frame guidelines for determination of fees and all other charges in respect of
fifty per cent. of seats in private medical institutions and deemed to be Universities
which are governed under the provisions of this Act.
(j) exercise such other powers and perform such other functions as may be
prescribed.
(2) All orders and decisions of the Commission shall be authenticated by signature of
the Secretary and the Commission may delegate such of its powers on administrative and
financial matters, as it deems fit, to the Secretary.
(3) The Commission may constitute sub-committees and delegate such of its powers
to them as may be necessary to enable them to accomplish specific tasks.
CHAPTER III
ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR HOMOEOPATHY
11. (1) The Central Government shall, by notification, constitute an advisory body to Constitution
be known as the Advisory Council for Homoeopathy. and
composition
(2) The Council shall consist of a Chairperson and the following Members, namely:— of Advisory
council for
(a) the Chairperson of the Commission shall be the ex officio Chairperson of the Homoeopathy.
Council;
(b) every Member of the Commission shall be ex officio member of the Council;
(c) one Member, to represent each State, who is the Vice-Chancellor of a University
in that State, possessing qualifications in Homoeopathy, to be nominated by that
State Government, and one member to represent each Union territory, who is the Vice-
Chancellor of a University in that Union territory, possessing qualifications in
Homoeopathy, to be nominated by the Ministry of Home Affairs in the Government of
India:
Provided that where the Vice-Chancellor possessing qualifications in
Homoeopathy is not available, a Dean or Head of Faculty possessing qualifications in
Homoeopathy shall be nominated;
(d) one member to represent each State and each Union territory from amongst
elected members of the State Homoeopathy Medical Council, to be nominated by that
State Medical Council;
(e) the Chairman,University Grants Commission;
(f) the Director, National Assessment and Accreditation Council;
(g) four Members to be nominated by the Central Government from amongst
persons holding the post of Director in the Indian Institutes of Technology, Indian
Institutes of Management and the Indian Institute of Science;
(h) the terms of non-ex officio Members in the Council shall be four years.
8 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
Functions of 12. (1) The Council shall be the primary platform through which the States and Union
Advisory territories may put forth their views and concerns before the Commission and help in shaping
Council for
Homoeopathy. the overall agenda, policy and action relating to medical education, training, research and
development of Homoeopathy.
(2) The Council shall advise the Commission on measures to determine and maintain,
and to coordinate maintenance of the minimum standards in all matters relating to medical
education, training, research and development.
(3) The Council shall advise the Commission on measures to enhance equitable access
to medical education.
Meetings of 13. (1) The Council shall meet at least twice in a year at such time and place as may be
Advisory decided by the Chairperson.
Council for
Homoeopathy. (2) The Chairperson shall preside at the meeting of the Council and if for any reason
the Chairperson is unable to attend a meeting of the Council, such other member as nominated
by the Chairperson shall preside over the meeting.
(3) Unless the procedure is otherwise provided by regulations, one-half of the Members
of the Council including the Chairperson shall form the quorum and all acts of the Council
shall be decided by a majority of the Members present and voting.
CHAPTER IV
NATIONAL EXAMINATION
National 14. (1) There shall be a uniform National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test, for admission
Eligibility- to the undergraduate in Homoeopathy in all medical institutions governed under this Act.
cum-Entrance
Test. (2) The Commission shall conduct the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test in English
and in such other languages, through such designated authority and in such manner, as may
be specified by regulations.
(3) The Commission shall specify by regulations the manner of conducting common
counselling by the designated authority for admission to all the medical institutions governed
under this Act:
Provided that the common counselling shall be conducted by the designated authority
of ––
(i) the Central Government, for All India seats; and
(ii) the State Government, for the remaining seats at the State level.
National Exit 15. (1) A common final year undergraduate medical examination, to be known as the
Test. National Exit Test, shall be held for granting licence to practice as medical practitioner of
Homoeopathy and for enrolment in the State Register or National Register, as the case may
be.
(2) The Commission shall conduct the National Exit Test for Homoeopathy in English
and in such other languages, through such designated authority and in such manner as may
be specified by regulations.
(3) The National Exit Test shall become operational on such date, within three years
from the date on which this Act comes into force, as may be appointed by the Central
Government, by notification.
(4) Any person with a foreign medical qualification shall have to qualify National Exit
Test for the purpose of obtaining licence to practice Homoeopathy as medical practitioner of
Homoeopathy and for enrolment in the State Register or the National Register, as the case
may be, in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 9
16. (1) A uniform Post-Graduate National Entrance Test shall be conducted for Post-Graduate
admission to post-graduate courses in Homoeopathy in all medical institutions governed National
Entrance
under this Act. Test.
(2) The Commission shall conduct the National Entrance Test for admission to post-
graduate courses in English and in such other languages, through such designated authority
and in such manner, as may be specified by regulations.
(3) The Commission shall specify by regulations the manner of conducting common
counselling by the designated authority for admission to the post-graduate seats in all
medical institutions governed under this Act.
17. (1) A National Teachers’ Eligibility Test shall be conducted separately for the post- National
graduates of Homoeopathy who desire to take up teaching profession in that discipline. Teachers’
Eligibility
(2) The Commission shall conduct the National Teachers’ Eligibility Test for Test for
Homoeopathy through such designated authority and in such manner as may be specified Homoeopathy.
by regulations.
(3) The National Teachers’ Eligibility Test for Homoeopathy shall become operational
on such date, within three years from the date on which this Act comes into force, as may be
notified by the Central Government:
Provided that nothing contained in this section shall apply to the teachers appointed
prior to the date notified under sub-section (3).
CHAPTER V
AUTONOMOUS BOARDS
18. (1) The Central Government shall, by notification, constitute the following Constitution
Autonomous Boards, under the overall supervision of the Commission, to perform the of
Autonomous
functions assigned to such Boards under this Act, namely:— Boards.
(a) the Homoeopathy Education Board;
(b) the Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Homoeopathy; and
(c) the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy.
(2) Each Board referred to in sub-section (1) shall be an autonomous body which shall
carry out its functions under this Act in accordance with the regulations made by the
Commission.
19. (1) The composition of the Autonomous Boards shall be as under, namely:–– Composition
of
(a) the Homoeopathy Education Board shall consist of a President and four Autonomous
Members from the discipline of Homoeopathy; Boards.
(b) the Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Homoeopathy shall consist
of a President from the discipline of Homoeopathy and two Members, out of whom
one Member shall be from the discipline of Homoeopathy and the other Member shall
be an acceditation expert;
(c) the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy shall consist of a
President from the discipline of Homoeopathy and two Members, out of whom one
Member shall be from the discipline of Homoeopathy and the other Member shall be
a person who has demonstrated public record of work on medical ethics or chosen
from any of the disciplines of quality assurance, public health, law or patient advocacy.
(2) The President and Members of the Autonomous Boards to be chosen under
sub-section (1) shall be persons of outstanding ability, proven administrative capacity and
integrity, possessing post-graduate degree in respective disciplines from a recognised
University and having experience of not less than fifteen years in respective fields, out of
which at least seven years shall be as a leader:
10 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
Provided that seven years as leader in the case of the President and Member from
Homoeopathy shall be in the area of health, growth and development of education in
Homoeopathy.
Search 20.The Central Government shall appoint the President and Members of the
Committee Autonomous Boards on the basis of the recommendations made in accordance with the
for
appointment procedure specified in section 5 by the Search Committee constituted thereunder.
of President
and Members.
Term of 21. (1) The President and Members of each Autonomous Board shall hold the office
office and for a term not exceeding four years and shall not be eligible for any extension or
conditions of
service of re-appointment:
President and
Members.
Provided that such person shall cease to hold office after attaining the age of seventy
years.
(2) The salary and allowances payable to, and other terms and conditions of service of
the President and Members of an Autonomous Board shall be such as may be prescribed.
(3) The provisions contained in sub-sections (3), (5), (6), (7) and (8) of section 6
relating to other terms and conditions of service of, and in section 7 relating to removal from
office, the Chairperson and Members of the Commission shall also be applicable to the
President and Members of the Autonomous Boards.
Advisory 22. (1) Each Autonomous Board, except the Board of Ethics and Registration for
committees Homoeopathy, shall be assisted by such advisory committees of experts, as may be constituted
of experts.
by the Commission, for the efficient discharge of the functions of such Boards under this
Act.
(2) The Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy shall be assisted by such
ethics committees of experts, as may be constituted by the Commission, for the efficient
discharge of the functions of that Board under this Act.
Staff of 23.The experts, professionals, officers and other employees appointed under section 8
Autonomous shall be made available to the Autonomous Boards in such number and in such manner, as
Boards.
may be specified by regulations made by the Commission.
Meetings of 24. (1) Every Autonomous Board shall meet at least once a month at such time and
Autonomous place as it may appoint.
Boards.
(2) Subject to such regulations as may be made in this behalf, all decisions of the
Autonomous Boards shall be made by consensus and if consensus is not possible, decision
shall be made by majority of votes of the President and Members.
(3) A person who is aggrieved by any decision of an Autonomous Board may prefer
an appeal to the Commission against such decision within thirty days of the communication
of such decision.
Delegation of 25. (1) The Commission may delegate all or any of its administrative and financial
powers. powers to the President of each Autonomous Board to enable such Board to function
smoothly and efficiently.
(2) The President of an Autonomous Board may further delegate any of his powers to
a Member or officer of that Board.
Powers and 26. (1) The Homoeopathy Education Board shall perform the following functions,
functions of namely:––
Homoeopathy
Education (a) determine the standards of education at the undergraduate, post-graduate
Board.
and super-speciality levels and oversee all aspects of relating thereto;
(b) develop a competency based dynamic curriculum for Homoeopathy at all
levels in accordance with the regulations made under this Act, in such manner that it
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 11
develops appropriate skill, knowledge, attitude, values and ethics among the post-
graduate and super-speciality students and enables them to provide healthcare, to
impart medical education and to conduct medical research;
(c) frame guidelines on setting up of medical institutions for imparting
undergraduate, post-graduate and super-speciality courses in Homoeopathy, having
regard to the needs of the country, the global norms and the regulations made under
this Act;
(d) determine minimum requirements and standards for conducting of courses
and examinations in medical institutions, having regard to the needs of creativity at
local levels and the regulations made under this Act;
(e) determine standards and norms for infrastructure, faculty and quality of
education and research in medical institutions of Homoeopathy, in accordance with
the regulations made under this Act;
(f) specify norms for compulsory annual disclosure, electronically and otherwise,
by medical institutions of Homoeopathy in respect of their functions that has a bearing
on the interest of various stakeholders including students, faculty, the Commission
and the Government;
(g) facilitate development and training of faculty Members;
(h) facilitate research programmes;
(i) grant recognition to medical qualifications of Homoeopathy at all levels.
(2) The Homoeopathy Education Board may, in the discharge of its functions, make
such recommendations to, and seek such directions from, the Commission, as it deems
necessary.
27. (1) The Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy shall perform the Powers and
following functions, namely:— functions of
Board of
(a) maintain a National Register of all licensed practitioners of Homoeopathy in Ethics and
accordance with the provisions of section 32; Registration
for
(b) regulate professional conduct and promote medical ethics in accordance Homoeopathy.
with the regulations made under this Act:
Provided that the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy shall ensure
compliance with the code of professional and ethical conduct through the State Medical
Council, in a case where such State Medical Council has been conferred power to take
disciplinary actions in respect of professional or ethical misconduct by medical
practitioners under respective State Acts;
(c) develop mechanisms to have continuous interaction with State Medical
Councils of Homoeopathy to effectively promote and regulate the conduct of medical
practitioners of Homoeopathy;
(d) exercise appellate jurisdiction with respect to the actions taken by a
State Medical Council under section 31.
(2) The Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy may, in the discharge of its
functions, make such recommendations to, and seek such directions from, the Commission,
as it deems necessary.
28. (1) The Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Homoeopathy shall perform Powers and
the following functions, namely:–– functions of
Medical
(a) determine the process of assessment and rating of medical institutions on Assessment
the basis of their compliance with the standards laid down by the Homoeopathy and Rating
Board for
Education Board, in accordance with the regulations made under this Act; Homoeopathy.
12 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
(5) Where a scheme is disapproved under sub-section (3) or where no order is passed
within three months of submitting a scheme under sub-section (2), the person concerned
may prefer an appeal to the Commission within fifteen days of such disapproval or, as the
case may be, after lapse of three months, in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
(6) Where the Commission has disapproved the scheme or no order has been passed
within fifteen days from the date of preferring appeal under sub-section (5), the person
concerned may prefer a second appeal to the Central Government within seven days of
communication of such disapproval or, as the case may be, lapse of specified period of
fifteen days.
(7) The Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Homoeopathy may conduct
evaluation and assessment of any University or medical institution at any time, either directly
or through any other expert, having integrity and experience in medical profession without
any prior notice and assess and evaluate the performance, standards and benchmarks of
such University or medical institution.
30. While approving or disapproving a scheme under section 29, the Medical Criteria for
Assessment and Rating Board for Homoeopathy, or the Commission, as the case may be, approving or
disapproving
shall take into consideration the following criteria, namely:—
scheme.
(a) adequacy of infrastructure and financial resources;
(b) whether adequate academic faculty, non-teaching staff and other necessary
facilities have been provided to ensure proper functioning of medical institution or
would be provided within the time-limit specified in the scheme;
(c) whether adequate hospital facilities have been provided or would be provided
within the time-limit specified in the scheme;
(d) such other factors as may be prescribed:
Provided that, subject to the previous approval of the Central Government, the
criteria may be relaxed for the medical institutions which are set up in such areas as
may be specified by the regulations.
31. (1) The State Government shall, by notification, within three years of the State Medical
commencement of this Act, establish a State Medical Council for Homoeopathy in that State Councils.
if no such Council exists in that State.
(2) Where a State Act confers power upon the State Medical Council to take disciplinary
actions in respect of any professional or ethical misconduct by a registered practitioner of
Homoeopathy, the State Medical Council shall act in accordance with the regulations made,
and the guidelines framed, under this Act:
Provided that till such time as a State Medical Council for Homoeopathy is established
in a State, the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy shall receive the complaints
and grievances relating to any professional or ethical misconduct against a registered
practitioner of Homoeopathy in that State in accordance with such procedure as may be
specified by regulations:
Provided further that the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy or, as the
case may be, the State Medical Council shall give an opportunity of hearing to such
practitioner before passing any order or taking any action, including imposition of any
monetary penalty, against such person.
(3) A practitioner of Homoeopathy who is aggrieved by the order passed or the action
taken by––
(a) the State Medical Council under sub-section (2) may prefer an appeal to the
Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy and the decision, if any, of the
14 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
(3) When a person whose name is entered in the State Register or the National Register,
as the case may be, obtains any title, diploma or qualification for proficiency in sciences or
medicine which is a recognised qualification under section 34 or section 35, as the case may
be, he shall be entitled to have such title, diploma or qualification entered against his name
in the State Register or the National Register, in such manner as may be specified by
regulations.
34. (1) No person other than a person who is enrolled in the State Register or the Rights of
National Register, as the case may be, shall— persons to
practice.
(a) be allowed to practice Homoeopathy as a qualified practitioner;
(b) hold office as a physician or a surgeon or any other office, by whatever name
called, which is meant to be held by a physician or surgeon, as the case may be;
(c) be entitled to sign or authenticate a medical or fitness certificate or any other
certificate required by any law to be signed or authenticated by a duly qualified
medical practitioner;
(d) be entitled to give evidence at any inquest or in any court of law as an expert
1 of 1872. under section 45 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 on any matter relating to
Homoeopathy:
Provided that the Commission shall submit a list of such practitioners to the
Central Government in such manner as may be prescribed:
Provided further that a foreign citizen who is enrolled in his country as a
practitioner of Homoeopathy in accordance with the law regulating the registration of
such practitioners in that country may be permitted temporary registration in India for
such period and in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
(2) Any person who acts in contravention of the provisions of this section shall be
punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine which may
extend to five lakh rupees, or with both.
(3) Nothing contained in sub-section (2) shall affect,—
(a) the right of a person enrolled on a State Register as practitioner of
Homoeopathy to practice in any State merely on the ground that he does not possess,
as on the date of commencement of this Act, a recognised medical qualification in
Homoeopathy;
(b) the right of a person who has been practicing Homoeopathy for not less
than five years in a State, to continue to practice in that State in which a State Register
of Homoeopathy is not maintained as on the date of commencement of this Act.
CHAPTER VI
RECOGNITION OF QUALIFICATIONS OF HOMOEOPATHY
35. (1) The medical qualifications in Homoeopathy at undergraduate or postgraduate Recognition
or super-speciality level granted by any University or medical institution in India shall be of
qualifications
listed and maintained by the Homoeopathy Education Board, in such manner as may be granted by
specified by regulations and such medical qualification shall be a recognised qualification Universities or
for the purposes of this Act. medical
institutions in
(2) Any University or medical institution in India which grants an undergraduate or India.
postgraduate or super-speciality qualification in Homoeopathy not included in the list
maintained by the Homoeopathy Education Board, may apply to that Board for granting
recognition to such qualification.
(3) The Homoeopathy Education Board shall examine the application for grant of
recognition within period of six months in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
(4) Where the Homoeopathy Education Board decides to grant recognition to the
qualification in Homoeopathy, it shall include such qualification in the list maintained by it
16 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
and shall also specify therein the date of effect of such recognition, otherwise it shall
communicate its decision not to grant recognition to the concerned University or medical
institution.
(5) The aggrieved University or the medical institution may prefer an appeal to the
Commission within a period of sixty days from the date of communication of the decision of
Homoeopathy Education Board in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
(6) The Commission shall examine the appeal received under sub-section (5) within a
period of two months and if it decides that recognition may be granted to such medical
qualification, it may direct the concerned Board to include such qualification in the list
maintained by that Board in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
(7) Where the Commission decides not to grant recognition under sub-section (6) or
fails to decide within the specified period, the aggrieved University or medical institution
concerned may prefer a second appeal to the Central Government within a period of thirty
days of the communication of such decision or lapse of specified period, as the case may be.
(8) All medical qualifications which have been recognised before the date of
commencement of this Act and are included in the Second Schedule to the Homoeopathy
Central Council Act, 1973, shall also be listed and maintained by the Homoeopathy Education 59 of 1973.
Board, in such manner as may be specified by regulations.
Recognition 36. (1) Where an authority in any country outside India which, by the law of that
of medical country, is entrusted with the recognition of qualifications of Homoeopathy in that country,
qualifications
granted by
makes an application to the Commission for granting recognition to such qualification in
medical India, the Commission may, subject to such verification as it deems necessary, either grant or
institutions refuse to grant recognition to that medical qualification.
outside India.
(2) Where the Commission grants recognition to any medical qualification under
sub-section (1), such qualification shall be a recognised qualification for the purposes of
this Act and shall be included in the list maintained by the Commission in such manner as
may be specified:
Provided that in case the Commission decides not to grant recognition to any
qualification, the Commission shall give a reasonable opportunity of being heard to such
authority before refusing to grant such recognition.
(3) Where the Commission refuses to grant recognition to a medical qualification
under sub-section (2), the authority concerned may prefer an appeal to the Central Government
for grant of recognition.
(4) All qualifications which have been recognised before the date of commencement
of this Act and are included in the Third Schedule to the Homoeopathy Central Council,
Act, 1973 shall also be recognised medical qualifications for the purposes of this Act and 59 of 1973.
shall be listed and maintained by the Commission in such manner as may be specified by
regulations.
Withdrawal of 37. (1) Where, upon a report received from the Medical Assessment and Rating Board
recognition or
de-recognition
for Homoeopathy or otherwise, it appears to the Commission that—
of
qualification.
(a) the courses of study and examination to be undergone in, or the proficiency
required from candidates at any examination held by, a University or medical institution
do not conform to the standards specified by Homoeopathy Education Board; or
(b) the standards and norms for infrastructure, faculty and quality of education
in medical institutions as determined by the Homoeopathy Education Board are not
adhered to by any University or medical institution, and such University or medical
institution has failed to take necessary corrective action to maintain specified minimum
standards,
the Commission may initiate action in accordance with the provisions of sub-section (2) :
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 17
Provided that the Commission shall, before, taking any action for suo motu withdrawal
of recognition granted to the medical qualification awarded by a University or medical
institution, impose penalty in accordance with the provisions of clause (f) of sub-section (l)
of section 28.
(2) The Commission shall, after making such further inquiry as it deems fit, and after
holding consultations with the State Government and the authority of the concerned
University or medical institution, comes to the conclusion that the recognition granted to a
medical qualification ought to be withdrawn, it may, by order, withdraw recognition granted
to such medical qualification and direct the Homoeopathy Education Board to amend the
entries against the University or medical institution concerned in the list maintained by that
Board to the effect that the recognition granted to such qualification is withdrawn with
effect from the date specified in that order.
(3) If the Commission, after verification with the authority in any country outside
India, is of the opinion that a recognised medical qualification which is included in the list
maintained by it is to be de-recognised, it may, by order, de-recognise such medical qualification
and remove it from the list maintained by the Commission with effect from the date of such
order.
38. Where the Commission deems it necessary so to do, it may, by notification, direct Special
that any qualification in Homoeopathy granted by a medical institution outside India, after provision in
certain cases
such date, as may be specified in that notification, shall be recognised qualification for the for
purposes of this Act: recognition of
qualifications.
Provided that medical practice by a person possessing such qualification shall be
permitted only if such person has been enrolled as a medical practitioner in accordance with
the law regulating the registration of medical practitioner for the time being in force in that
country:
Provided further that medical practice by a person possessing such qualification shall
be limited to such period as may be specified in that order:
Provided also that medical practice by a person possessing such qualification shall be
permitted only if such person qualifies National Exit Test.
CHAPTER VII
GRANTS, AUDIT AND ACCOUNTS
39. The Central Government may, after due appropriation made by Parliament by law in Grants by
this behalf, make to the Commission grants of such sums of money as the Central Government Central
Government.
may think fit.
40. (1) There shall be constituted a fund to be called “the National Commission Fund National
for Homoeopathy” and there shall be credited thereto— Commission
Fund for
(a) all Government grants, fees, penalties and charges received by the Commission Homoeopathy.
and the Autonomous Boards;
(b) all sums received by the Commission from such other source as may be
decided by it.
(2) The fund shall be applied for making payment towards—
(a) The salaries and allowances payable to the Chairperson and Members of the
Commission, Presidents and Members of the Autonomous Boards and administrative
expenses including the salaries and allowances payable to the officers and other
employees of the Commission and the Autonomous Boards;
(b) the expenses incurred or to be incurred in carrying out the provisions of this
Act including in connection with the discharge of the functions of the Commission
and the Autonomous Boards.
18 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
Audit and 41. (1) The Commission shall maintain proper accounts and other relevant records
accounts. and prepare an annual statement of accounts in such form as may be prescribed, in
consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.
(2) The accounts of the Commission shall be audited by the Comptroller and Auditor-
General of India at such intervals as may be specified by him and any expenditure incurred
in connection with such audit shall be payable by the Commission to the Comptroller and
Auditor-General of India.
(3) The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India and any other persons appointed by
him in connection with the audit of the accounts of the Commission shall have the same
rights and privileges and authority in connection with such audit as the Comptroller and
Auditor-General generally has in connection with the audit of Government accounts and in
particular, shall have the right to demand the production of, and complete access to, records,
books, accounts, connected vouchers and other documents and papers and to inspect the
office of the Commission.
(4) The accounts of the Commission as certified by the Comptroller and Auditor-
General of India or any other person appointed by him in this behalf, together with the audit
report thereon, shall be forwarded annually by the Commission to the Central Government
which shall cause the same to be laid, as soon as may be after it is received, before each
House of Parliament.
Furnishing of 42. (1) The Commission shall furnish to the Central Government, at such time, in such
returns and form and in such manner, as may be prescribed or as the Central Government may direct,
reports to
Central
such reports and statements and such particulars in regard to any matter under the jurisdiction
Government. of the Commission, as the Central Government may, from time to time, require.
(2) The Commission shall prepare, once every year, in such form and at such time as
may be prescribed, an annual report, giving a summary of its activities during the previous
year and copies of the report shall be forwarded to the Central Government.
(3) A copy of the report received under sub-section (2) shall be laid by the Central
Government, as soon as may be after it is received, before each House of Parliament.
CHAPTER VIII
MISCELLANEOUS
Power of 43. (1) Without prejudice to the foregoing provisions of this Act, the Commission and
Central the Autonomous Boards shall, in exercise of their powers and discharge of their functions
Government
to give
under this Act be bound by such directions on questions of policy as the Central Government
directions to may give in writing to them from time to time:
Commission
Provided that the Commission and the Autonomous Boards shall, as far as practicable,
and
Autonomous be given an opportunity to express their views before any direction is given under this
Boards. sub-section.
(2) The decision of the Central Government whether a question is one of policy or not
shall be final.
Power of 44. The Central Government may give such directions, as it may deem necessary, to a
Central State Government for carrying out all or any of the provisions of this Act and the State
Government
to give
Government shall comply with such directions.
directions to
State
Governments.
Information to 45. (1) The Commission shall furnish such reports, copies of its minutes, abstracts of
be furnished by its accounts and other information to the Central Government as that Government may
Commission
and publication
require.
thereof.
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 19
(2) The Central Government may publish, in such manner as it may think fit, the
reports, minutes, abstracts of accounts and other information furnished to it under
sub-section (1).
46. Every University and medical institutions covered under this Act shall maintain a Obligation of
website at all times and display in its website all such information as may be required by the Universities
and medical
Commission or an Autonomous Board, as the case may be. institutions.
47. (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, any student who was studying Completion
for a degree or diploma in any medical institution immediately before the commencement of of courses of
studies in
this Act shall continue to so study and complete his course for such degree or diploma, and
medical
such institution shall continue to provide instructions and hold examination for such student institutions.
in accordance with the syllabus and studies as existed before such commencement, and
such student shall be deemed to have completed his course of study under this Act and
shall be awarded degree or diploma under this Act.
(2) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, where recognition granted to a
medical institution has lapsed, whether by efflux of time or by its voluntary surrender or for
any other reason whatsoever, such medical institution shall continue to maintain and provide
the minimum standards as approved by the Commission till such time as all the candidates
are able to complete their study in that institution.
48. The Chairperson, Members, officers and other employees of the Commission, Chairperson,
President and Members of Autonomous Boards shall be deemed, when acting or purporting Members,
officers of
to act in pursuance of any of the provisions of this Act, to be public servants within the Commission,
45 of 1860. meaning of section 21 of the Indian Penal Code. Autonomous
Boards to be
public
servants.
49. No suit, prosecution or other legal proceeding shall lie against the Government, Protection of
the Commission or any Autonomous Board or a State Medical Council or any Committee action taken
in good faith.
thereof, or any officer or other employee of the Government or of the Commission acting
under this Act for anything which is in good faith done or intended to be done under this Act
or the rules or regulations made thereunder.
50. No Court shall take cognizance of an offence punishable under this Act except Cognizance of
upon a complaint in writing made in this behalf by an officer authorised by the Commission offences.
or the Ethics and Registration Board or a State Medical Council, as the case may be.
51. (1) If, at any time, the Central Government is of opinion that–– Power of
Central
(a) the Commission is unable to discharge the functions and duties imposed on Government
it by or under the provisions of this Act; or to supersede
Commission.
(b) the Commission has persistently made default in complying with any direction
issued by the Central Government under this Act or in the discharge of the functions
and duties imposed on it by or under the provisions of this Act,
the Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, supersede the Commission
for such period, not exceeding six months, as may be specified in the notification:
Provided that before issuing a notification under this sub-section, the Central
Government shall give a reasonable opportunity to the Commission to show cause as to
why it should not be superseded and shall consider the explanations and objections, if any,
of the Commission.
(2) Upon the publication of a notification under sub-section (1) superseding the
Commission,––
(a) all the Members shall, as from the date of supersession, vacate their offices
as such;
20 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
(b) all the powers, functions and duties which may, by or under the provisions
of this Act, be exercised or discharged by or on behalf of the Commission, shall, until
the Commission is re-constituted under sub-section (3), be exercised and discharged
by such person or persons as the Central Government may direct;
(c) all property owned or controlled by the Commission shall, until the
Commission is re-constituted under sub-section (3), vest in the Central Government.
(3) On the expiration of the period of supersession specified in the notification issued
under sub-section (1), the Central Government may,—
(a) extend the period of supersession for such further term not exceeding
six months, as it may consider necessary; or
(b) re-constitute the Commission by fresh appointment and in such case the
Members who vacated their offices under clause (a) of sub-section (2) shall not be
deemed disqualified for appointment:
Provided that the Central Government may, at any time before the expiration of
the period of supersession, whether as originally specified under sub-section (1) or as
extended under this sub-section, take action under clause (b) of this sub-section.
(4) The Central Government shall cause a notification issued under sub-section (1)
and a full report of any action taken under this section and the circumstances leading to
such action to be laid before both Houses of Parliament at the earliest opportunity.
Joint sittings 52. (1) There shall be a joint sitting of the Commission, the National Commission for
of Indian System of Medicine and the National Medical Commission, at least once a year, at
Commission,
National
such time and place as they mutually appoint, to enhance the interface between Homoeopathy,
Commission Indian System of Medicine and modern system of medicine.
for Indian
Systems of (2) The Agenda for the joint sitting may be placed with mutual agreement by the
Medicine and Chairpersons of the Commissions concerned.
National
Medical (3) The joint sitting may, by an affirmative vote of all members present and voting,
Commission. decide on approving specific educational and medical modules or programmes that could be
introduced in the undergraduate and postgraduate courses across medical systems, and
promote medical pluralism.
State 53. Every State Government may, for the purposes of addressing or promoting public
Government health, take necessary measures to enhance the capacity of the healthcare professionals.
to promote
public health.
Power to 54. (1) The Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, make rules
make rules. to carry out the purposes of this Act.
(2) In particular, and without prejudice to the foregoing power, such rules may provide
for all or any of the following matters, namely:––
(a) the manner of appointing five Members of the Commission on rotational
basis from amongst the nominees of the States and Union territories in the Advisory
Council under clause (b) of sub-section (4) of section 4;
(b) the manner of appointing members under clause (c) of sub-section (4) of
section 4;
(c) the manner of nominating one expert by the Central Government under
clause (c) of sub-section (1) of section 5;
(d) the salary and allowances payable to, and other terms and conditions of
service of, the Chairperson and Members under sub-section (4) of section 6;
(e) the form and the manner of making declaration under sub-section (6) of
section 6;
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 21
(h) the other languages in which, the designated authority through which, and
the manner in which the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test shall be conducted
under sub-section (2) of section 14;
(i) the manner of conducting common counselling by the designated authority
for admission to medical institutions under sub-section (3) of section 14;
(j) the other languages in which, the designated authority through which, and
the manner in which, the National Exit Test shall be conducted under sub-section (2)
of section 15;
(k) the manner in which a person with foreign medical qualification shall qualify
National Exit Test under sub-section (4) of section 15;
(l) the other languages in which, the designated authority through which, and
the manner in which admission to postgraduate courses shall be conducted under
sub-section (2) of section 16;
(m) the manner of conducting common counselling by the designated authority
for admission to the postgraduate seats in all medical institutions under
sub-section (3) of section 16;
(n) the manner of conducting the National Teachers’ Eligibility Test for
Homoeopathy and the designated authority through whom such test shall be
conducted under sub-section (2) of section 17;
(o) the number of, and the manner in which, experts, professionals, officers and
other employees shall be made available by the Commission to the Autonomous
Boards under section 23;
(p) the manner in which decisions of the Autonomous Boards shall be made
under sub-section (2) of section 24;
(q) the competency based dynamic curriculum at all levels under clause (b)
of sub-section (1) of section 26;
(r) the manner of setting up of medical institutions for imparting undergraduate,
postgraduate and super-speciality courses in Homoeopathy under clause (c) of
sub-section (1) of section 26;
(s) the minimum requirements and standards for conducting courses and
examinations in medical institutions under clause (d) of sub-section (1) of section 26;
(t) the standards and norms for infrastructure, faculty and quality of education
and research in medical institutions of Homoeopathy under clause (e) of sub-section (1)
of section 26;
(u) the manner of regulating professional conduct and promoting medical ethics
under clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 27;
(v) the procedure for assessment and rating of the medical institutions under
clause (a) of sub-section (1) of section 28;
(w) the manner of carrying out inspections of medical institutions for assessing
and rating under clause (c) of sub-section (1) of section 28;
(x) the manner of conducting, and the manner of empanelling independent rating
agencies to conduct, assess and rate all medical institutions under clause (d) of
sub-section (1) of section 28;
(y) the manner of making available on website or in public domain the
assessment and ratings of medical institutions under clause (e) of sub-section (1) of
section 28;
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 23
(z) the measures to be taken against a medical institution for failure to maintain
the minimum essential standards under clause (f) of sub-section (1) of section 28;
(za) the form of scheme, the particulars thereof, the fee to be accompanied and
the manner of submitting scheme for establishing new medical college under
sub-section (2) of section 29;
(zb) the manner of preferring an appeal to the Commission for approval of the
scheme under sub-section (5) of section 29;
(zc) the areas in respect of which criteria may be relaxed under the proviso to
section 30;
(zd) the manner of taking disciplinary action by a State Medical Council for
professional or ethical misconduct of registered medical practitioner and the procedure
for receiving complaints and grievances by the Board of Ethics and Registration for
Homoeopathy, under sub-section (2) of section 31;
(ze) the act of commission or omission which amounts to professional or ethical
misconduct under clause (b) of the Explanation to section 31;
(zf) other particulars to be contained in a National Register under
sub-section (1) of section 32;
(zg) the form, including the electronic form and the manner of maintaining the
National Register under sub-section (2) of section 33;
(zh) the manner in which any name or qualification may be added to, or removed
from, the National Register and the grounds for removal thereof, under
sub-section (3) of section 34;
(zi) the manner of entering the title, diploma or qualification in the State Register
or the National Register under sub-section (3) of section 35;
(zj) the manner in which, and the period for which temporary registration may be
permitted to a foreign citizen under the third proviso to sub-section (1) of section 34;
(zk) the manner of listing and maintaining medical qualifications granted by a
University or medical institution in India under sub-section (1) of section 35;
(zl) the manner of examining the application for grant of recognition under
sub-section (3) of section 35;
(zm) the manner of preferring an appeal to the Commission for grant of recognition
under sub-section (5) of section 35;
(zn) the manner of including a medical qualification in the list maintained by the
Board under sub-section (6) of section 36;
(zo) the manner in which the Homoeopathy Education Board shall list and maintain
the medical qualifications which have been granted recognition before the date of
commencement of this Act, under sub-section (8) of section 35;
(zp) the manner in which the Commission shall list and maintain the medical
qualifications which have been granted recognition before the date of commencement
of this Act, under sub-section (4) of section 36.
56. Every rule and every regulation made under this Act shall be laid, as soon as may Rules and
be after it is made, before each House of Parliament, while it is in session, for a total period of regulations to
be laid before
thirty days which may be comprised in one session or in two or more successive sessions, Parliament.
and if, before the expiry of the session immediately following the session or the successive
sessions aforesaid, both Houses agree in making any modification in the rule or regulation
or both Houses agree that the rule or regulation should not be made, the rule or regulation
24 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—
shall thereafter have effect only in such modified form or be of no effect, as the case may be;
so, however, that any such modification or annulment shall be without prejudice to the
validity of anything previously done under that rule or regulation.
Power to 57. (1) If any difficulty arises in giving effect to the provisions of this Act, the Central
remove Government may, by order, published in the Official Gazette, make such provisions not
difficulties.
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act as may appear to it to be necessary, for the
removing of the difficulty:
Provided that no order shall be made under this section after the expiry of a period of
two years from the commencement of this Act.
(2) Every order made under this section shall be laid, as soon as may be after it is made,
before each House of Parliament.
Repeal and 58. (1) With effect from such date as the Central Government may, by notification,
saving. appoint in this behalf, the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 shall stand repealed and 59 of 1973.
the Central Council of Homoeopathy constituted under section 3 of the said Act shall stand
dissolved.
(2) Notwithstanding the repeal of the Act referred to in sub-section (1), it shall not
affect,––
(a) the previous operation of the Acts so repealed or anything duly done or
suffered thereunder; or
(b) any right, privilege, obligation or liability acquired, accrued or incurred under
the Act so repealed; or
(c) any penalty incurred in respect of any contravention under the Act so
repealed; or
(d) any proceeding or remedy in respect of any such right, privilege, obligation,
liability, penalty as aforesaid, and any such proceeding or remedy may be instituted,
continued or enforced, and any such penalty may be imposed as if that Act had not
been repealed.
(3) On the dissolution of the Central Council of Homoeopathy, the person appointed
as the Chairman of that Council and every other person appointed as the Member and any
officer and other employees of the Council and holding office as such immediately before
such dissolution shall vacate their respective offices and such Chairman and other Members
shall be entitled to claim compensation not exceeding three months’ pay and allowances for
the premature termination of term of their office or of any contract of service:
Provided that any officer or other employee who has been, immediately before the
dissolution of the Central Council of Homoeopathy appointed on deputation basis to the
Central Council of Homoeopathy, shall, on such dissolution, stand reverted to their parent
cadre, Ministry or Department, as the case may be:
Provided further that any officer, expert, professional or other employee who has
been, immediately before the dissolution of the Central Council of Homoeopathy employed
on regular basis or on contractual basis by the Council, shall cease to be such officer, expert,
professional or other employees of the Central Council and shall be entitled to such
compensation for the premature termination of his employment, which shall not be less than
three months’ pay and allowances, as may be prescribed.
(4) Notwithstanding the repeal of the aforesaid enactment, any order made, any licence
to practice issued, any registration made, any permission to start new medical institution or
to start higher course of studies or to increase in the admission capacity granted, any
recognition of medical qualifications granted, under the Homoeopathy Central Council
Act, 1973 which are in force as on the date of commencement of this Act shall continue to be 59 of 1973.
in force till the date of their expiry for all purposes, as if they had been issued or granted
under the provisions of this Act or the rules or regulations made thereunder.
SEC. 1] THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY 25
59. (1) The Commission shall be the successor in interest to the Central Council of Transitory
Homoeopathy including its subsidiaries or owned trusts and all the assets and liabilities of provisions.
the Central Council of Homoeopathy shall be deemed to have been transferred to the
Commission.
59 of 1973. (2) Notwithstanding the repeal of the Homoeopathy Central Council Act 1973, the
educational and medical standards, requirements and other provisions of the Homoeopathy
Central Council Act, 1973 and the rules and regulations made thereunder shall continue to be
in force and operate till new standards or requirements are specified under this Act or the
rules and regulations made thereunder:
Provided that anything done or any action taken as regards the educational and
medical standards and requirements under the enactment under repeal and the rules and
regulations made thereunder shall be deemed to have been done or taken under the
corresponding provision of this Act and shall continue in force accordingly unless and until
superseded by anything or by any action taken under this Act.
(3) The Central Government may take such measures, as may be necessary, for the
smooth transition of the dissolved Central Council of Homoeopathy to the corresponding to
new Commission under this Act.
————
UPLOADED BY THE MANAGER, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA PRESS, MINTO ROAD, NEW DELHI–110002
AND PUBLISHED BY THE CONTROLLER OF PUBLICATIONS, DELHI–110054. SUBIR Digitally signed by
SUBIR NARAYAN
NARAYAN GARAI
Date: 2020.09.22
GARAI 01:57:34 +05'30'
MGIPMRND—732GI—21-09-2020.
The Central Government can influence the Autonomous Boards through the appointment of Presidents and Members based on the Search Committee's recommendations . It also has the power to make and notify rules and regulations which govern the functions and operations of the boards . Furthermore, the Government approves the curriculum and standards set for education, research, and ethical conduct, indicating significant governmental oversight and control . Every rule and regulation made is subject to Parliamentary approval, ensuring accountability and adherence to national objectives .
Regulations ensure fair disciplinary actions and grievance handling by empowering the Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy to act on professional and ethical misconduct. The Board collaborates with State Medical Councils that have the authority to handle such issues under respective State Acts . It uses mechanisms for receiving complaints and conducting investigations, ensuring transparency and accountability in the process . Furthermore, practitioners can appeal Board decisions to the Commission, offering an additional layer of oversight and fairness in disciplinary actions .
The eligibility criteria for the President and Members of the Autonomous Boards require that they be persons of outstanding ability, proven administrative capacity, and integrity, possessing a postgraduate degree in their respective disciplines from a recognized university, with at least fifteen years of experience in their respective fields, including at least seven years in a leadership role . The appointment process is based on recommendations made according to the procedure specified in section 5 by the Search Committee constituted for this purpose. Additionally, they will hold office for a term not exceeding four years and shall not be eligible for any extension or re-appointment .
The Autonomous Boards maintain accountability and transparency through several provisions. They hold monthly meetings where decisions are made by consensus or majority vote if consensus is not possible. Additionally, decisions can be appealed to the Commission within thirty days . They are also assisted by advisory committees for efficient discharge of functions, further promoting transparency and oversight . Furthermore, there are regulations requiring public disclosures by medical institutions to safeguard stakeholder interests .
The Commission's regulatory framework supports the Homoeopathy Education Board by establishing clear guidelines and standards for Homoeopathy education. It creates a competency-based curriculum, sets minimum requirements for courses, and guides the establishment of medical institutions . The framework extends to developing faculty, promoting research, and recognizing qualifications, thereby ensuring a coherent yet dynamic educational approach. Additionally, by empowering the Board with the ability to make recommendations to and seek directions from the Commission, it constructs a responsive governance structure that promotes educational excellence and addresses emerging needs within the field .
The Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy is responsible for maintaining a National Register of all licensed Homoeopathy practitioners. This includes regulating the professional conduct of registered practitioners and ensuring compliance with ethical codes. The Board also coordinates with State Medical Councils to promote and regulate professional conduct effectively . By maintaining this register, the Board ensures a high standard of professional practice and adherence to ethical norms among Homoeopathy practitioners .
The Homoeopathy Education Board is tasked with several functions to enhance education and practice. It determines the standards of education at various levels, develops a competency-based curriculum, sets guidelines for medical institutions, and establishes minimum standards for courses and examinations . Moreover, it facilitates faculty development, promotes research programs, and grants recognition to medical qualifications. These measures aim to ensure quality education, proper skill development, and compliance with global norms .
The Medical Assessment and Rating Board for Homoeopathy plays a critical role in quality assurance by determining the assessment process of medical institutions and institutions' ratings. It oversees inspections, empanels independent rating agencies, and ensures that medical institutions meet required standards. Moreover, it publicizes assessment results to maintain transparency and helps enforce measures against institutions failing to maintain essential standards . This framework seeks to uphold and enhance the educational and infrastructural quality of Homoeopathy institutions.
The Board of Ethics and Registration for Homoeopathy is responsible for maintaining ethical standards and professional conduct among practitioners. It maintains a National Register of licensed practitioners, regulates professional conduct according to the Act's regulations, and ensures compliance through the State Medical Council . Additionally, it interacts continuously with State Medical Councils and exercises appellate jurisdiction over disciplinary actions taken by these councils . These mechanisms collectively uphold and promote medical ethics within the profession.
The National Teachers' Eligibility Test for Homoeopathy is designed to assess the eligibility of postgraduates who wish to pursue a teaching career in Homoeopathy. The Commission conducts this test through a designated authority, and it is expected to become operational within three years of the Act's enactment, as notified by the Central Government. This test ensures that educators possess the necessary skills and knowledge required for teaching Homoeopathy, thereby maintaining high educational standards across teaching institutions . Teachers appointed before the operational date are exempt from this requirement, allowing a smooth transition to the new standards .