Indian Nursing Council (INC): Complete Guide - Role, Powers, Act (1947) & Kerala Nurses Council
Updated: October 2025 · Location focus: India
Nursing is the heart of healthcare — providing essential care, compassion, and service to millions. In India, the Indian Nursing Council (INC) serves as the national body that regulates nursing education and professional standards. This guide covers what INC is, when it was formed, its mandate and powers, and how state-level bodies such as the Kerala Nurses & Midwives Council work in coordination with INC.
What is the Indian Nursing Council?
The Indian Nursing Council (INC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. It was created to ensure uniform standards of nursing education and training across India. INC regulates programs like ANM, GNM, B.Sc Nursing, Post Basic B.Sc Nursing, M.Sc Nursing, and Nurse Practitioner courses. Its aim is to prepare skilled and ethical nurses capable of providing high-quality patient care.
When Did the Indian Nursing Council Act Come Into Force?
The Indian Nursing Council Act, 1947 (Act No. XLVIII of 1947) came into effect on December 31, 1947. This law granted the Council authority to establish national standards for nursing education and practice. Since then, the Act has undergone revisions to keep pace with modern healthcare needs and global nursing standards.
What is the Mandate of the Indian Nursing Council (INC)?
The primary mandate of the Indian Nursing Council is to develop and maintain uniform standards for nursing education and to promote the profession throughout India. The major responsibilities include:
- Prescribing minimum educational standards for nursing courses at all levels.
- Recognizing and approving nursing institutions that meet prescribed norms and facilities.
- Maintaining a national register of nurses, midwives, and health visitors.
- Designing and updating nursing curricula in line with modern healthcare practices.
- Collaborating with State Nursing Councils to ensure local implementation of national guidelines.
- Advising the government on nursing education, policy, and workforce planning.
By ensuring these standards, the INC helps maintain consistency in the quality of nursing professionals across all Indian states.
What is Kerala Nurses & Midwives Council?
The Kerala Nurses & Midwives Council (KNMC) is a state-level regulatory authority functioning under the Kerala Nurses and Midwives Act, 1953. It works under the broad framework of the Indian Nursing Council but focuses on nursing regulation within the state of Kerala.
Main functions of KNMC:
- Registering qualified nurses, midwives, and health visitors in Kerala.
- Monitoring and inspecting nursing schools and colleges for compliance with INC norms.
- Ensuring professional conduct and discipline among nursing practitioners.
- Conducting continuing education and professional development programs.
While the Indian Nursing Council sets the standards at the national level, state councils like the KNMC implement and enforce them within their respective states.
What Powers Does the Indian Nursing Council Have?
Under the Indian Nursing Council Act, 1947, the Council has several powers to regulate and oversee nursing education and practice across India. These include:
- Recognizing and withdrawing recognition of nursing qualifications and institutions based on compliance with standards.
- Prescribing the curriculum and training requirements for all nursing programs.
- Inspecting nursing institutions to ensure adherence to rules and educational norms.
- Maintaining a national register of qualified nurses, midwives, and health visitors.
- Advising governments on policy matters related to nursing education and workforce development.
These powers allow the INC to ensure that nursing education remains credible, consistent, and aligned with international healthcare standards.
Role of INC in Promoting Nursing in India
The INC’s initiatives go beyond regulation—it also works to elevate the status of nursing as a professional career. Major initiatives include:
- Upgrading nursing colleges and courses to match global standards.
- Implementing digital registration and transparency systems.
- Encouraging research and innovation in nursing practices.
- Introducing competency-based curricula for skill-focused learning.
These reforms ensure that Indian nurses are recognized for their skills not only nationally but also internationally.
People Also Ask
Who is the current president of the Indian Nursing Council?
The president of the INC is appointed by the Central Government. The position is usually held by a senior nursing administrator or educator. Visit the official INC website for the current president’s name.
Where is the headquarters of the Indian Nursing Council?
The INC headquarters is located in New Delhi, India.
What are the approved nursing programs under INC?
INC approves programs such as ANM, GNM, B.Sc Nursing, Post Basic B.Sc Nursing, M.Sc Nursing, and Ph.D. in Nursing.
How does INC regulate foreign-trained nurses?
Foreign-trained nurses must get their qualifications verified and recognized by the INC before practicing in India.
What is the difference between INC and State Nursing Councils?
The INC regulates at the national level, while State Nursing Councils like the KNMC manage registration, local inspections, and state-level enforcement.
Conclusion
The Indian Nursing Council is the foundation of nursing education and regulation in India. It ensures that every nurse trained in the country meets the highest standards of competence, ethics, and compassion. By coordinating with state councils, revising curricula, and inspecting institutions, the INC plays an indispensable role in improving healthcare quality and professional growth for nurses nationwide.
As the demand for skilled nurses continues to rise globally, the INC’s role becomes even more vital — shaping a generation of healthcare professionals ready to serve with knowledge, care, and dedication.
Tags: Indian Nursing Council, INC Act 1947, Nursing education in India, Kerala Nurses and Midwives Council, Nursing registration, INC powers, Nursing regulation India
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes. For official updates, visit the Indian Nursing Council website.
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