Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
1: Act Background and Ministry Under Which This Act Is:
The All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences Act, 1956, was enacted to establish and regulate All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) as institutions of national importance. The act aims to develop high standards of medical education, training, and research. This act falls under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which oversees the functioning of AIIMS and ensures their alignment with national health policies. The ministry plays a vital role in promoting medical education and research.
2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences Act, 1956, was enacted on 2nd June, 1956, and is known as Act No. 25 of 1956. The act is structured into 29 sections, with no formal chapters. These sections cover various aspects such as definitions, establishment and incorporation of institutes, composition of the governing body, functions, powers, and control mechanisms. The act has been amended over time to expand its scope.
3: Act Governed By:
The All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences Act is governed by the Central Government, which has the power to make rules and regulations under the Act. The act also establishes the Governing Body of each Institute, which is responsible for its administration. The act is governed by the provisions outlined within it, as well as rules and regulations framed by the Central government. The act is a combination of central and institutional governance.
4: On Whom It Is Applicable:
The provisions of the All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences Act are applicable to the All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences, their governing bodies, faculties, staff, and students. The act also applies to the Central Government, which exercises control and oversight. The act ensures that all aspects of these institutes are in accordance with the regulations outlined, as well as its mandate and guiding principles. The general public are indirect beneficiaries of the Act’s provisions.
5: Penalties/Punishments:
The All-India Institutes of Medical Sciences Act does not specifically lay down penalties or punishments for violation of its provisions. However, the act provides for mechanisms to ensure accountability, such as the power of the Central Government to issue directions, appoint a Commission of Enquiry, and oversee the functioning of the Institutes. The act ensures accountability through rules, regulations, and supervisory authority. This act therefore prioritizes good governance and public welfare.
6: Important Pointers:
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Establishment: The act establishes AIIMS as institutions of national importance.
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Governing Body: It provides for the constitution and functions of the Governing Body of each Institute.
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Central Government Control: It outlines the powers of the Central Government to control and oversee the functioning of the Institutes.
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Objectives: It specifies the objectives of AIIMS, which include developing high standards of medical education, training, and research.
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Functions: It details the functions of AIIMS, including teaching, research, and providing facilities for various health sciences.
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Fund and Budget: It provides for the establishment of a fund and the preparation of an annual budget for each Institute.
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Recognition of Qualifications: It allows AIIMS to grant medical, dental, and nursing qualifications that are recognized under relevant acts.
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Rule-Making Power: It empowers the Central Government to make rules and the Institutes to make regulations for carrying out the purposes of the act. The act provides a comprehensive framework for medical education and research in India.
7: Act Copy: