In a move aimed at modernising medical education and improving healthcare outcomes, the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has introduced a new online training course focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for doctors. NBEMS functions as an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The digital programme has been designed to equip nearly 50,000 medical professionals with essential knowledge of AI, covering its real-world use in areas such as clinical care, diagnostics, medical research, academic teaching, and clinical decision support systems.
By strengthening digital skills, the initiative seeks to help doctors confidently adopt AI-enabled tools in both healthcare delivery and educational settings, thereby enhancing efficiency and patient care standards.
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, described the initiative as “timely and forward-looking” while addressing the programme’s launch.
She highlighted that India continues to face a heavy burden of non-communicable diseases along with persistent challenges like tuberculosis. According to her, initiatives such as this can encourage a transition from largely reactive healthcare systems to more preventive and proactive models of care.
The programme has already generated significant interest, with over 42,000 doctors enrolling shortly after registrations opened
The programme has already generated significant interest, with over 42,000 doctors enrolling shortly after registrations opened, Patel noted.
Emphasising the growing role of technology in medicine, she said, “The use of AI in healthcare is no longer an option but a necessity.” She clarified that AI is meant to support doctors rather than replace them, helping overcome workforce shortages and manage the increasing patient load more effectively.
Patel further stressed that AI adoption must remain responsible and ethical, guided by transparency, accountability, and accessibility, while ensuring patient safety and trust.
Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava called the initiative a major step toward enhancing medical education nationwide. “The launch of the online training initiative on Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare is a significant step towards strengthening medical education and building the capacity of doctors across the country,” she said.
She added that such programmes play a vital role in encouraging the careful and ethical integration of emerging technologies, improving healthcare delivery, and supporting India’s broader digital health ambitions.
Echoing similar views, Dr. Abhijat Sheth, President of NBEMS, said the course reflects the organisation’s ongoing efforts to update medical education frameworks and reinforce capacity building among healthcare professionals across India.