Union Minister Launches AI Training Programme for 50,000 Doctors, ETHealthworld

New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel on Wednesday launched an online training programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medical education developed by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS).

The programme aims to provide around 50,000 doctors with a foundational understanding of AI and its applications in clinical practice, diagnostics, decision-making, research and medical education, the ministry said.

Addressing the launch, Patel said more than 42,000 doctors have already registered for the programme, calling the initiative timely and forward-looking. She noted that with India facing a high burden of non-communicable diseases and continuing challenges such as tuberculosis, the use of emerging technologies like AI can help shift healthcare delivery from a reactive to a more preventive approach.

The minister said the use of AI in healthcare is no longer optional but a necessity, adding that the technology is intended to augment doctors’ capabilities rather than replace them. She emphasised that AI can help address workforce shortages and growing patient loads, but its adoption must be guided by principles of accountability, accessibility and ethical use.

Patel also congratulated NBEMS for conceptualising and implementing the programme and appreciated its efforts to leverage technology to strengthen medical education and healthcare delivery.

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said the initiative marks an important step towards capacity building of doctors across the country and supports India’s broader vision of digital health. She stressed the need for responsible adoption of emerging technologies to improve healthcare outcomes.

NBEMS President Dr Abhijat Sheth said the programme reflects the board’s commitment to modernising medical education and enhancing digital competencies among medical professionals. He expressed confidence that the initiative would empower doctors nationwide and contribute to improved healthcare delivery.

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