Dr. Patil said the move strengthens Karnataka’s healthcare workforce, while the council will implement standards with universities for quality checks and improved allied healthcare services
BENGALURU
Karnataka has become the first state in India to implement Minimum Standard Requirements for allied healthcare education and physiotherapy programmes. The new standards were released by Medical Education Minister Dr. Sharanprakash R. Patil in Bengaluru and were prepared by the Karnataka State Allied and Healthcare Council.
The initiative follows competency-based curriculum guidelines issued by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions under the 2021 Act. The standards include rules for faculty, infrastructure, laboratories, equipment, clinical training, student intake and institutional management. They will be introduced across Karnataka from the 2026-27 academic year.
Officials said the framework will create uniform quality standards for institutions offering allied healthcare and physiotherapy courses. It covers 12 undergraduate and 12 postgraduate programmes, helping improve education quality, patient safety and career opportunities for graduates. The council said the move will also support better recognition of professionals within India and abroad.
Dr. Patil said the step shows Karnataka’s commitment to developing a skilled and regulated healthcare workforce. Council Chairman Dr. U. T. Ifthikar Ali said the standards will guide inspections, recognition and quality checks in educational institutions. The council will work with universities to ensure smooth implementation of the new system and strengthen allied healthcare services across the state.
Officials expect the updated requirements to improve training methods and provide students with stronger practical skills for healthcare careers. The initiative is expected to bring more consistency among institutions and help Karnataka build a reliable healthcare workforce. It will also encourage better standards in professional education while supporting safe and effective healthcare delivery for people across Karnataka.