Indian Nursing Council (INC)
The Indian Nursing Council (INC) is a national-level regulatory body that oversees the education, registration and practice of nursing in India. The council is responsible for setting standards for nursing education, registering nurses, and ensuring that nurses are qualified to provide safe and effective care to patients.
History
The Indian Nursing Council (INC) was established in 1947, under the Indian Nursing Council Act, 1947. It was established to regulate and standardize nursing education in India. The council functions as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Objectives
The main objectives of the Indian Nursing Council are:
- To maintain uniformity in the standards of nursing education throughout the country
- To provide for the recognition of foreign qualifications in nursing and the recognition of Indian qualifications in nursing abroad
- To advise the central and state governments on matters related to nursing education and registration of nurses
- To ensure that nurses are competent and able to provide safe and effective care
- To promote the development of the nursing profession in India
Functions
The Indian Nursing Council performs a number of functions that help to regulate and standardize nursing education and practice in India. Some of the key functions of the council include:
Setting standards for nursing education: The council sets and maintains standards for nursing education in India, including the curriculum and syllabus for nursing programs, the minimum qualifications for nursing instructors, and the requirements for nursing schools and colleges.
Registering nurses: The council maintains a register of qualified nurses, including their qualifications, experience, and professional conduct.
Recognizing nursing qualifications: The council recognizes and approves nursing qualifications from other countries and ensures that Indian nurses who wish to work abroad have their qualifications recognized.
Inspecting nursing schools and colleges: The council conducts regular inspections of nursing schools and colleges to ensure that they are meeting the standards set by the council and providing quality education to students.
Advising the government: The council advises the central and state governments on matters related to nursing education, registration, and practice.
Council Members
The Indian Nursing Council consists of a President, a Vice-President, and 10 members. The President, Vice President and members of the council are elected by the registered nurses of India. The Secretary, Controller of Examinations, and other officials are appointed by the central government.
Conclusion
The Indian Nursing Council (INC) is a vital regulatory body that oversees the education, registration and practice of nursing in India. It plays a crucial role in maintaining uniformity in the standards of nursing education, providing recognition for foreign qualifications, and ensuring that nurses are competent and able to provide safe and effective care. The council also provides valuable advice to the government, which helps to guide nursing policies and practices in India. Through its functions and objectives, the council plays an important role in the development of the nursing profession in India.