Strengthening digital competencies in healthcare, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, today launched an online training programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Medical Education. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, developed the programme.
Building Foundational AI Skills for Medical Professionals
As reported by pib.gov.in, the programme aims to equip around 50,000 doctors with a foundational understanding of AI and its practical applications. Specifically, it focuses on the use of AI in clinical practice, diagnostics, clinical decision-making, research, and medical education. Through this initiative, NBEMS seeks to enhance digital skills among doctors and enable them to effectively integrate AI-driven tools into healthcare delivery and academic practice.
Strong Response Highlights Timely Relevance
While addressing the gathering, Smt. Anupriya Patel expressed satisfaction with the overwhelming response to the initiative. Notably, over 42,000 doctors have already registered for the programme. She described the initiative as timely and forward-looking, highlighting that in a country facing a high burden of non-communicable diseases along with the persistent challenge of tuberculosis, such programmes can help shift healthcare delivery from reactive treatment to proactive and preventive care.
AI as an Enabler, Not a Replacement
Furthermore, the Minister of State emphasised that the use of AI in healthcare is no longer optional but essential. She clarified that AI is not meant to replace doctors; instead, it aims to augment clinical capabilities, bridge gaps caused by shortages of medical professionals, and manage the growing patient load. At the same time, she stressed that AI adoption must follow the principles of accountability, accessibility, and ethical use, ensuring that technological advancements strengthen healthcare systems while safeguarding patient interests.
Commendation for NBEMS’ Proactive Leadership
In addition, Smt. Anupriya Patel congratulated NBEMS for conceptualising and implementing the programme. She appreciated the institution’s proactive approach in leveraging emerging technologies to modernise medical education and healthcare delivery across the country.
Strengthening Capacity and Advancing Digital Health
Addressing the event, Union Health Secretary Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava described the launch as a significant step towards capacity building among doctors nationwide. She emphasised that such initiatives play a critical role in promoting the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, improving healthcare delivery, and advancing India’s vision of digital health.
NBEMS Reaffirms Commitment to Modern Medical Education
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abhijat Sheth, President, NBEMS, stated that the programme reflects the organisation’s strong commitment to modernising medical education and strengthening capacity building for doctors. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for its continued guidance and support, and conveyed confidence that the initiative would empower doctors across India and contribute to better healthcare outcomes.
Wide Participation from National and Global Experts
Senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, distinguished NBEMS functionaries, and eminent national and international experts from the fields of medicine, medical education, and healthcare technology also participated virtually in the launch event, underscoring the programme’s national and global significance.