The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a new circular directing all NMC-regulated medical colleges and institutions across India to constitute Enabling Units for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD).

The move has been introduced in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 and follows recent directions of the Hon'ble Supreme Court. The objective is to ensure an inclusive, accessible and supportive educational environment for students with benchmark disabilities.

According to the circular, each Enabling Unit will serve as the single point of contact for PwBD students. These units will facilitate reasonable accommodation, provide academic and clinical support, address disability-related requests during studies and internships, coordinate with Disability Assessment Boards and institutional authorities, and ensure barrier-free access within campuses.

Medical colleges have also been instructed to publicize the availability and contact details of these Enabling Units through their websites, admission materials and notice boards. Additionally, institutions must maintain confidential records of accommodation requests and ensure timely implementation of disability support measures.

The NMC has emphasized that all medical colleges must make these Enabling Units fully functional and accessible to promote equal educational opportunities for students with benchmark disabilities.