In a major step towards integrating emerging technologies into healthcare and medical education, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt Anupriya Patel, on Monday launched an online training programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Medical Education. The programme has been developed by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS).

Designed to provide around 50,000 doctors with a foundational understanding of AI, the initiative aims to familiarise medical professionals with its practical applications in clinical practice, diagnostics, clinical decision-making, research and medical education. It seeks to strengthen digital competencies among doctors and support the effective use of AI-based tools in both healthcare delivery and academics.

Addressing the launch, Smt Anupriya Patel expressed satisfaction over the strong response to the programme, revealing that more than 42,000 doctors have already registered. Calling the initiative timely and forward-looking, she noted that at a time when India faces a high burden of non-communicable diseases alongside the persistent challenge of tuberculosis, such capacity-building efforts can help shift healthcare from a reactive model to a more proactive and preventive approach.

Emphasising the growing relevance of technology, the Minister said the use of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare is no longer optional but essential. “AI is not meant to replace doctors; it is meant to augment their capabilities,” she said, adding that AI can help bridge gaps caused by shortages of healthcare professionals and manage the increasing patient load. She also stressed that the adoption of AI must be guided by accountability, accessibility and ethical use, with patient safety and trust remaining central.

The Minister congratulated NBEMS for conceptualising and implementing the programme, and appreciated its proactive role in leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen medical education and healthcare systems in the country.

Union Health Secretary Smt Punya Salila Srivastava described the launch as a significant milestone in strengthening medical education and building the capacity of doctors nationwide. She said such initiatives are critical for the responsible adoption of new technologies, improving healthcare delivery and advancing India’s broader vision of digital health.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Abhijat Sheth, President, NBEMS, said the programme reflects the board’s commitment to modernising medical education and enhancing capacity building among doctors. He thanked the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for its continued support and expressed confidence that the initiative would empower doctors across the country and contribute to improved healthcare outcomes.

The virtual launch was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, NBEMS functionaries, and eminent national and international experts from the fields of medicine, medical education and healthcare technology.