Indian Medical Association
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The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is a private, national voluntary organisation of physicians in India. It was established in 1928[2] as the All India Medical Association, and was renamed the Indian Medical Association in 1930. It is a society registered under The Societies Act of India.

Key Information

Background

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The Indian Medical Association has approximately 350,000 member doctors[2] in 1,700 active local branches in 29 states and union territories in India.[3][4] It is the largest association of medical doctors in India.[5]

Previously stationed out of Calcutta, the IMA is headquartered in New Delhi.[2] Local branches send representatives to a central council which meets annually.[6] The council delegates to a working committee that represents all state branches and meets at least three times a year.[6]

The Indian Medical Association is one of the 27 founder members of the World Medical Association,[7] joining in 1948.[2] The IMA left the organization in 1985 due to the WMA's retention of South Africa, then a practitioner of apartheid. The IMA rejoined the WMA in 1993.[2] A Reuters investigative report from 2015 found that the IMA had incorrectly told the WMA that charges of corruption brought by the Central Bureau of Investigation against former IMA president Ketan Desai had been withdrawn.[8][9]

The IMA has expressed opposition to integrated medicine or the mixing together of systems of medicine in curriculum, practice and research in India, often by using the term "mixopathy".[10][11][12] The IMA has held a number of nationwide protests.[13][14][15] These have included several protests between November 2016 and March 2017[16] that objected to bills raised toward the creation of the National Medical Commission[15][17] which replaced the Medical Council of India on 25 September 2020.[18] In December 2020, approximately one million doctors attended a day-long strike organized by the IMA to protest a federal government rule that allows practitioners of the Indian system of medicine Ayurveda to perform minor surgeries.[19] In early 2021, the IMA held a two-week nationwide hunger strike to protest the government's support for surgical training for postgraduate students of Ayurveda.[20]

In 2022, Sahajanand Prasad Singh was listed as the national president for the organization.[11] Singh was preceded in the post by surgeon J. A. Jayalal from 2020 to 2021.[21] Longtime member and cardiologist K. K. Aggarwal held several posts within the IMA including president.[22][23] Ketan Desai served as the organization's head[24] from 2001 to 2003[25] following a period when he had been found guilty by Delhi High Court of corrupt practices and abuse of power.[26]

Office Bearers of IMA since Inception

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Journal of the Indian Medical Association

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The Journal of the Indian Medical Association, (JIMA), is indexed in the Index Medicus. Published monthly, JIMA has over 240,000 subscribers for its electronic version and is also available in microfilm through Bell & Howels, US.[29] JIMA was founded in 1930 by Sir Nilratan Sircar, Bidhan Chandra Roy, Kumud Sankar Ray, and others in Calcutta.[29]

See also

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References

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Indian Medical Association

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The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is the largest voluntary organization of physicians practicing modern scientific medicine in India, founded on December 28, 1928, during the 5th All India Medical Conference in Calcutta under the presidency of Dr. G. V. Deshmukh, and registered under the Societies Registration Act in 1930.[1] Headquartered in New Delhi's IMA House since 1949, it represents over 3.5 lakh members through 28 state branches, 5 union territory branches, and more than 1,700 local branches, functioning as a pan-India body to promote medical and allied sciences, enhance public health, and uphold the dignity and ethical standards of the medical profession.[2][1] The IMA has contributed to international medical governance by participating in the formation of the World Medical Association in 1946 and later hosting its General Assembly in 2009, while also leading the Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania on multiple occasions, including its presidency in 2019.[2] It publishes the Journal of the Indian Medical Association and engages in public health initiatives, such as campaigns against tuberculosis—observing IMA TB Day on March 2—and efforts to curb vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue through member branches.[3][4] Defining its role in India's healthcare landscape, the IMA advocates for evidence-based practices and professional autonomy, which has occasionally led to criticisms from sources alleging insufficient oversight of unethical conduct in private practices, though it maintains a code of ethics and opposes unqualified practitioners and unproven integrations with traditional systems lacking empirical validation.[5][2]

History

Founding and Pre-Independence Era

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) was founded on December 28, 1928, during the fifth All India Medical Conference held in Calcutta under the presidency of Dr. G. V. Deshmukh of Bombay.[1] This event followed four prior conferences, the first occurring in Calcutta in 1917, and marked the formal organization of doctors practicing modern scientific medicine across India.[1] The association began with 222 members and was registered in 1930 under the Societies Registration Act, XXI of 1860.[1] Its foundational objectives included promoting and advancing medical and allied sciences, improving public health and medical education, and maintaining the honor and dignity of the profession.[1] In the pre-independence era, the IMA advocated for the interests of Indian physicians amid British colonial administration of healthcare and education. In 1929, it successfully prevented the appointment of a British Indian Medical Service officer to the position of Medical Education Commissioner.[1] The organization contributed to amendments in the Medical Council of India Act, which facilitated the election of the MCI president, with Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy serving as the first elected holder of that role and also as IMA president from 1929 to 1930.[1][6] It also pursued the creation of an All India Medical Register encompassing licentiates, aiming to standardize recognition of medical qualifications nationwide.[1] Early IMA leaders, including Dr. Roy and Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari—both active participants in the Indian freedom struggle—reflected the association's emergence during a period of intensifying political agitation against colonial rule.[1] The organization provided relief services during pre-independence natural calamities, such as earthquakes, droughts, floods, famines, and epidemics, demonstrating practical support for public welfare under constrained conditions.[1] These efforts underscored the IMA's role in professional unification and resilience, even as its members navigated restrictions imposed by the prevailing imperial medical framework.[7]

Post-Independence Expansion and Milestones

Following India's independence in 1947, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) relocated its headquarters from Calcutta to Delhi in January 1949, securing a plot in Indraprastha Estate to centralize operations amid the nation's reorganization.[1] This move facilitated administrative efficiency and proximity to the central government, enabling greater influence on national health policy. The foundation stone for the IMA House was laid by President Dr. Rajendra Prasad on September 19, 1958, with the building completed and inaugurated by Vice President Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on September 6, 1964, symbolizing institutional consolidation.[1] Membership expanded significantly, reflecting the growth of India's medical profession; by September 1990, IMA had 78,000 members including 9,000 life members across 1,274 local branches, 23 state branches, and 9 territorial branches.[1] By the 2020s, this had surged to over 3.3 lakh direct members and 3.5 lakh total, organized through 28 state branches, 5 union territory branches, and 1,702 local branches, extending coverage to nearly every district.[1] [2] The association marked its Diamond Jubilee in 1988, underscoring sustained organizational maturity.[1] Key international milestones included hosting the III World Conference on Medical Education in New Delhi in 1966 under the auspices of the World Medical Association (WMA), enhancing IMA's global stature.[2] After a temporary withdrawal from the WMA in 1985, IMA rejoined in 1993, later hosting the WMA General Assembly in New Delhi in 2009 and seeing Dr. Ketan Desai elected WMA President in 2015.[1] [2] Domestically, IMA assumed the presidency of the Commonwealth Medical Association (CMAAO) in 2019, further solidifying its leadership in regional medical advocacy.[2] These developments paralleled IMA's ongoing role in addressing public health challenges, including epidemics and natural disasters, through coordinated member responses.[1]

Key Events in the Late 20th and Early 21st Centuries

In 1985, the Indian Medical Association withdrew from the World Medical Association to protest apartheid policies in South Africa, reflecting its commitment to ethical international standards.[1] The IMA rejoined the WMA in 1993 at its 45th General Assembly held from October 2 to 5, after the dismantling of apartheid, thereby restoring ties with the global medical community.[1] The association observed its Diamond Jubilee in 1988, marking 60 years of operations and highlighting its evolution into a major professional body.[1] By September 1990, IMA membership stood at 78,000 doctors, including 9,000 life members, supported by 23 state branches and 9 territorial branches, underscoring organizational growth amid India's economic liberalization.[1] In 1996, the IMA updated the title of one of its key publications from Family Practice News India to Family Medicine – India, aligning with its focus on primary care dissemination.[1] Entering the early 21st century, the IMA convened its 76th All India Medical Conference in Calcutta on December 28, 2000, commemorating 72 years of advocacy for medical ethics, education, and public health.[1] The organization deepened engagement in national initiatives, such as AIDS prevention programs launched in the late 1980s and expanded in the 1990s, alongside support for the Universal Immunization Programme universalized in 1990–1991 to achieve nationwide coverage.[8] By the mid-2010s, membership exceeded 250,000, enabling broader campaigns against quackery and unethical practices through legal and public advocacy efforts.[3]

Organizational Structure

National Headquarters and Governance

The national headquarters of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) is situated at IMA House, Indraprastha Marg, New Delhi-110002, India.[9] This facility serves as the central administrative hub for the organization's operations.[1] Additionally, the IMA's journal office is located in Kolkata, handling publication-related functions separately from the headquarters.[1] Governance of the IMA is primarily vested in the Central Council, which exercises general control, management, and direction over the association's policies and affairs.[10] The Central Council comprises representatives elected or delegated from state and local branches, ensuring decentralized input into national decision-making.[11] It convenes at least twice annually to deliberate on strategic matters.[12] The Working Committee functions as the executive arm of the Central Council, empowered to implement approved policies and programs.[13] Composed of elected office bearers, including the National President—who chairs both Central Council and Working Committee meetings—the committee manages day-to-day affairs and executes directives from higher bodies.[14] Overall administration is handled by these elected members, who adhere to the association's memorandum, rules, and bye-laws.[15]

State, Local Branches, and Membership

The Indian Medical Association maintains a three-tier organizational structure comprising national headquarters, state and union territory branches, and local branches, with all branches operating under the oversight of the central body. State branches exist for each of India's 28 states and select union territories, totaling approximately 33 territorial divisions, while local branches number over 1,750 and are typically established at the district or sub-district level to facilitate grassroots engagement among physicians.[2][1] Local branches require a minimum of 10 eligible members residing, practicing, or employed in the area to form, enabling localized professional activities such as meetings and advocacy.[16] Membership in the IMA is primarily channeled through local branches, where eligible candidates—registered medical practitioners holding qualifications recognized by the Indian Medical Council or state councils—submit a prescribed Membership Application Form (MA Form).[17] Upon approval at the local level, membership extends privileges including participation in branch activities, though intern members are restricted from voting or holding elected offices.[18] The association reports a total membership exceeding 3.3 lakh doctors, distributed across these branches, with state branches coordinating transfers and oversight to maintain continuity for members relocating between locales.[1][19] State branches function as intermediaries between the national headquarters and local units, handling administrative duties, ethical enforcement, and regional policy implementation, while local branches focus on day-to-day professional development and community outreach.[20] This decentralized yet hierarchical model ensures broad representation, with branch members classified separately from direct or overseas affiliates to align governance with geographic and professional needs.[21]

Affiliated Wings and Committees

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) operates several affiliated wings tailored to distinct professional groups within the medical community, emphasizing academic advancement, specialization, and international collaboration. The IMA College of General Practitioners (IMA CGP) functions as the primary academic wing for general practitioners, delivering continuing medical education programs, workshops, and certification courses to enhance clinical skills and knowledge updates in primary care.[2] Established to promote postgraduate training among non-specialist physicians, it organizes annual conferences and family medicine initiatives, with over 10,000 fellows as of recent records.[3] Complementing this, the IMA Academy of Medical Specialities (IMA AMS) serves specialists across disciplines, offering specialized training, research forums, and policy discussions on advanced medical practices. It publishes the Annals of IMA AMS annually, compiling peer-reviewed articles and case studies from members, and conducts symposia on emerging therapeutic areas.[3][2] The IMA International Wing coordinates global engagements, managing affiliations with organizations such as the World Medical Association (WMA, founded member since 1947), Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania (CMAAO), Commonwealth Medical Association (CMA), British Medical Association, and Nepal Medical Association. It facilitates participation in international policy-making, including endorsements of declarations like the Geneva Declaration on medical ethics, and organizes cross-border health responses, such as aid during the 2015 Nepal earthquake.[22] Additional specialized wings include the IMA AKN Sinha Institute, which provides online CME modules and digital learning platforms for members nationwide, and the IMA Hospital Board of India, focused on standardizing hospital operations, patient safety protocols, and accreditation for private nursing homes and facilities.[2] IMA also maintains standing committees as operational arms for targeted advocacy and implementation. These encompass the Standing Committee for Finance, overseeing fiscal management; Standing Committee for Ethics, addressing professional conduct; and domain-specific groups like the Standing Committee for Anti-Microbial Resistance, which develops stewardship guidelines, and the Standing Committee for Resuscitation-CPR, promoting standardized emergency protocols across institutions. As of 2023, over 20 such committees exist, chaired by elected experts and reporting to the central working committee for policy execution.[23][24][25]

Leadership

Election and Term Processes

The election of office bearers in the Indian Medical Association (IMA), including the national president, is conducted by an independent Election Commission comprising a Chief Election Commissioner and two members, all life members elected by the Central Council for a two-year term to ensure impartiality.[26] This body oversees nominations, scrutiny, ballot distribution, and counting, with communications issued solely from its office to prevent undue influence.[26] Eligibility for the position of National President-Elect requires candidates to be life members for at least 120 months, with at least 60 months of service on a local, state, or central working committee, and prior experience holding an honorary secretary, treasurer, or vice president role for one year or more; alternative criteria apply for government service members, emphasizing continuous membership and branch-level leadership.[27] No individual may contest the presidency more than once, and candidates are limited to running for no more than two office-bearer posts overall.[28] Nominations open on July 1 and close on July 31 annually, followed by scrutiny by August 14, with ballots dispatched to the electoral college by September 15 and voting concluding on October 31; the process uses numbered envelopes for secrecy, with counting at IMA headquarters in New Delhi.[26] The electoral college consists of Central Council members, including regular members, ex-officio participants, office bearers, and the Central Working Committee, totaling approximately 4,119 voters as recorded in the 2024 elections.[29] Voting occurs via postal ballots mailed to eligible members, with results declared after verification; in the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 cycles, 50 candidates were elected unopposed out of 60 posts following nomination scrutiny that validated 57 candidacies from 211 initial submissions.[29] The National President-Elect serves a one-year term before automatically assuming the presidency for another one-year term, with no re-election to the presidency permitted; other key positions, such as vice presidents, also hold one-year terms elected in alternate years, while roles like Secretary General serve two-year terms.[28][26] Vacancies, such as in the presidency, are filled by the senior-most vice president, with the Central Working Committee addressing other gaps.[28] These procedures, outlined in Bye-Law 43 and amended in 2007 and 2012, aim to rotate leadership while prioritizing experienced members.[26]

List of Past Presidents and Notable Office Bearers

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) elects a national president annually to lead its national headquarters and represent its over 400,000 members. The position has been held by 94 individuals from the organization's founding in 1928 through the 2022-2023 term, with some serving multiple non-consecutive terms.[6] The inaugural president was Dr. G. V. Deshmukh of Bombay, Maharashtra (1928-1929), followed by Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy of Calcutta, West Bengal (1929-1930), a physician-statesman who later founded key institutions like the Indian Institute of Mental Health and served as West Bengal's longest-serving chief minister from 1948 to 1962.[6] Other early presidents included Dr. Nilratan Sircar of Calcutta, West Bengal (1931-1932), known for advancing tropical medicine research. Recent presidents include Dr. Sharad Kumar Agarwal of Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh (2022-2023).[6] A full chronological list of past national presidents, including their cities and states, is maintained by the IMA.[6]
S.No.NameCity/StateYear(s)
1Dr. G. V. DeshmukhBombay, Maharashtra1928-1929
2Dr. Bidhan Chandra RoyCalcutta, West Bengal1929-1930
3Dr. Nilratan SircarCalcutta, West Bengal1931-1932
............
94Dr. Sharad Kumar AgarwalGhaziabad, Uttar Pradesh2022-2023
Notable office bearers beyond presidents include honorary secretaries general, who manage day-to-day operations at IMA headquarters. This role, established in 1937, has been predominantly held by physicians from Delhi, with 25 individuals serving through 2020-2022.[30] Early secretaries included Dr. K. S. Ray of West Bengal (1937-1940), who helped consolidate the association during pre-independence challenges.[30] A prominent recent figure is Dr. K. K. Aggarwal of Delhi (2014-2016), a cardiologist who advocated for ethical guidelines amid rising healthcare commercialization.[30] The following table lists past honorary secretaries general:
Serial No.NameStateYear(s)
1Dr. K. S. RayWest Bengal1937-1940
2Dr. (Capt.) P. B. MukherjeeWest Bengal1940-1946
3Dr. P. K. GuhaDelhi1946-1948
4Dr. (Lt. Col) Amil ChandLahore1948-1949
5Dr. S. C. SenDelhi1949-1953
6Dr. A. P. MitraDelhi1953-1962
7Dr. Ved PrakashDelhi1962-1969
8Dr. P. C. BhatlaDelhi1969-1975
9Dr. D. S. MehraDelhi1975-1977
10Dr. M. G. GargDelhi1977-1982
11Dr. Harish GroverDelhi1982-1986
12Dr. J. J. SoodDelhi1986-1988
13Dr. N. K. GroverDelhi1988-1992
14Dr. Jagdish C. SobtiDelhi1992-Jun 1996
15Dr. Prem AggarwalDelhiJun 1996-2000
16Dr. Sanjiv MalikDelhi2001-Jun 2004
17Dr. Vinay AggarwalDelhiJun 2004-Dec 2006
18Dr. S. N. MisraDelhi2006-2008
19Dr. Dharam PrakashDelhi2008-2010
20Dr. D. R. RaiDelhi2010-2012
21Dr. Narendra SainiDelhi2012-2014
22Dr. K. K. AggarwalDelhi2014-2016
23Dr. R. N. TandonDelhi2016-2018
24Dr. R. V. AsokanKerala2018-2020
25Dr. Jayesh M. LeleMaharashtra (Mumbai)2020-2022

Controversies Involving Leadership

In 2010, Dr. Ketan Desai, who had previously served as president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and was then president of the Medical Council of India (MCI), was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on charges of corruption and criminal conspiracy. Prosecutors alleged he accepted a bribe of 2 crore rupees (approximately $240,000 at the time) to recommend recognition for a medical college in Punjab despite deficiencies, as detailed in the CBI charge-sheet for the Gian Sagar Medical College case.[31][32] Desai, a urologist, faced additional charges in a separate 2010 New Delhi case involving a similar conspiracy to secure MCI approval for another institution through illicit payments.[33] Earlier, in 2001, Desai had been found guilty of corruption by India's Supreme Court during his tenure as MCI president, which prompted calls for his removal from IMA leadership as well; the court ruled he had misused his position, barring him from holding public office.[34][35] Despite these developments, Desai was exonerated in some proceedings and reinstated in medical governance roles, including election as president of the World Medical Association in October 2016 amid ongoing charges.[31][36] The IMA conducted an internal inquiry via its ethics committee, which reviewed CBI documents and concluded the charges against Desai lacked substantiation, leading to his continued association as chief patron into 2024.[37] In September 2024, the Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) urged the IMA to reconsider Desai's patronage role, citing risks to institutional integrity from his unresolved history of allegations.[32] Election processes within the IMA have faced accusations of irregularities and potential corruption, particularly highlighted in 2024. FAIMA, representing junior doctors, alleged that the IMA imposed non-refundable nomination fees exceeding ₹1 lakh per candidate for national office-bearer positions but proceeded to declare results without transparent voting or adequate member verification, raising concerns over electoral manipulation.[38][39] FAIMA's letter to the IMA's Chief Election Commissioner on September 1, 2024, demanded an independent probe into these practices, including opaque fund handling from fees, to restore trust in leadership selection.[40] The IMA's constitution outlines an Election Tribunal for disputes, but critics argued implementation favored incumbents, exacerbating divisions between senior and junior members.[41] In May 2024, IMA National President Dr. R.V. Asokan faced rebuke from India's Supreme Court for public statements criticizing a judicial ruling in the Patanjali Ayurved case, where the court had fined the company for misleading advertisements but also scrutinized IMA's role.[42] The bench remarked that the IMA could not "sit on a couch and say anything," questioning the propriety of leadership commentary on ongoing litigation and emphasizing institutional accountability.[42] This incident underscored tensions between IMA advocacy and judicial oversight, though Asokan maintained the remarks defended physicians' professional interests.[42] Earlier leadership actions, such as 2010 agreements under IMA stewardship to endorse consumer products like Quaker Oats and Tropicana juice for health benefits, drew government warnings for compromising medical ethics and potentially misleading the public on non-medical endorsements.[43] These deals, involving senior office-bearers, were criticized for blurring lines between professional advocacy and commercial interests, prompting ethical reviews within the association.[43]

Core Activities and Advocacy

Professional Ethics and Continuing Medical Education

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) governs the professional conduct of its members through adherence to the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002, which emphasize serving humanity with conscience, dignity, and respect for human life.[44] These regulations require physicians to prioritize patient interests, uphold beneficence and non-maleficence, obtain informed consent, maintain patient privacy and autonomy, and subordinate financial motives to medical needs.[45] IMA members pledge to reject gifts or benefits from pharmaceutical companies, oppose selective sex determination, comply with statutory requirements, and protect vulnerable groups while respecting cultural diversity.[44] IMA maintains an Independent Ethics Committee to oversee ethical standards in medical practice and research, ensuring alignment with national guidelines that safeguard participant rights, dignity, and safety.[46] The association's Standing Committee on Medical Ethics organizes sessions addressing practitioner challenges, such as a scientific session on "Ethical Issues Faced by Medical Profession" held on April 9, 2022, to promote discussion and adherence among members.[47] For continuing medical education (CME), IMA facilitates programs to update physicians on evolving practices, aligning with National Medical Commission (NMC) requirements that mandate 30 credit hours every five years for license renewal among practitioners under age 65.[48] Through its branches and affiliates like the IMA College of General Practitioners (IMA CGP), the association offers structured courses, including a 10-month Primary Care Echocardiography program and an 8-month Fellowship in Family Medicine, alongside seminars, workshops, and conferences on topics such as decoding cough and fever (e.g., sessions in November and December 2022).[49][50] The IMA AKN Sinha Institute of Continuing Medical & Health Education and Research in Patna supports these efforts with certificate courses and research-oriented training for over 2,500 graduates to date.[51] These initiatives, often accredited by NMC or state councils, emphasize practical skill enhancement and knowledge dissemination without compromising ethical standards.[52]

Public Health Initiatives and Campaigns

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has organized numerous public health campaigns aimed at disease prevention, awareness, and community outreach, often in collaboration with government bodies and international partners. These initiatives emphasize evidence-based interventions, such as vaccination promotion, tobacco control, and nutritional deficiency mitigation, leveraging IMA's network of over 400,000 members across branches.[53] A prominent example is the IMA Rise and Shine Campaign launched in 2015 to address vitamin D deficiency, conducted across 128 cities through 1,700 IMA branches to raise awareness and promote testing and supplementation among at-risk populations.[54] In tobacco control, IMA led the Doctors for Tobacco Control in India forum, advocating for and supporting the enforcement of 85% pictorial health warnings on tobacco packaging effective April 1, 2016; this included an SMS campaign mobilizing 250,000 doctors, white papers, and letters to government officials to counter industry opposition.[55] Similarly, since 1997, IMA has contributed to tuberculosis elimination by conducting over 10,000 continuing medical education programs and 100 workshops, training 234,377 doctors under Global Fund-supported initiatives to integrate private sector efforts with national programs.[53] The Mission Pink Health project, a flagship IMA wing focused on adolescent girls' health, targets anemia eradication, menstrual hygiene, and prevention of child sexual abuse through school-based screenings, deworming, and iron supplementation; activities in 2021-2022 included awareness sessions for students, with broader sensitization reaching over 400,000 doctors against prenatal sex determination practices.[56][53] IMA also initiated an HIV sensitization program in 1993, training nearly 400,000 healthcare personnel in partnership with the National AIDS Control Organization for early diagnosis and mother-to-child transmission prevention.[53] During the COVID-19 pandemic, IMA supported national vaccination drives by disseminating guidelines, conducting webinars, and countering misinformation to encourage uptake among healthcare providers and the public.[57] Other efforts include the Village Adoption Program started in 2003, under which IMA adopted 1,040 rural villages for improved healthcare access via camps and education, and the Anemia-Free India Campaign integrated into routine medical outreach.[53] IMA's Jan Aushadhi Initiative promotes affordable generic medicines to enhance accessibility, aligning with broader goals of reducing spurious drug circulation through awareness and advocacy.[58] These campaigns underscore IMA's role in bridging clinical practice with preventive public health, though implementation varies by local branches and funding availability.[59]

Defense of Physician Rights and Opposition to Malpractice

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has consistently advocated for legal safeguards to protect physicians from unwarranted litigation and physical threats, emphasizing that medical practice involves inherent risks without criminal intent. In response to rising incidents of violence, the IMA launched a nationwide campaign in July 2024 titled "Criminal prosecution of doctors for medical accidents is injustice; Violence on doctors is injustice," highlighting that over 75% of Indian doctors have faced some form of workplace violence.[60][61] The organization demanded a central law to criminalize assaults on healthcare workers, proposing penalties including up to 10 years imprisonment and fines, following high-profile cases such as the 2019 murder of a doctor in Jorhat, Assam, and the 2024 Kolkata rape-murder incident.[62][63] On medical negligence, the IMA opposes the routine criminalization of errors, arguing that treatment lacks mens rea and should only attract civil liability unless gross negligence akin to culpable homicide is proven. It welcomed the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita's 2023 provisions reducing imprisonment for negligence from life terms or up to two years to up to five years but continues pushing for full decriminalization to prevent defensive medicine and frivolous arrests.[64][65] In July 2024, the IMA urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enforce Section 26 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, requiring investigating officers to assess necessity before prosecuting doctors in negligence cases.[66] The association maintains that criminal probes should be limited to instances where evidence collection demands arrest, as outlined in its January 2024 submission to the Union Home Minister.[67] The IMA has historically resisted the inclusion of medical services under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, contending that consumer forums lack medical expertise and enable harassment through unsubstantiated claims. In the 1995 Supreme Court case Indian Medical Association v. V.P. Shantha, the IMA argued unsuccessfully that professional services involving skill and judgment do not qualify as "services" for consumer redress, a position it reiterated amid ongoing debates, including the 2024 Supreme Court referral for review of that ruling.[68][69] To mitigate disputes, the IMA established a mediation cell for patient-physician conflicts and views internal censure as the mildest disciplinary measure, upheld by rulings like the Madras High Court's 1981 decision in M. Basheer Ahmad v. R. Govindarajulu.[70] These efforts underscore the IMA's focus on balancing accountability with protections against systemic misuse of legal mechanisms.

Publications and Knowledge Dissemination

Journal of the Indian Medical Association

The Journal of the Indian Medical Association (JIMA) is the official monthly publication of the Indian Medical Association, established to advance medical sciences, safeguard the professional interests of physicians, and promote indigenous pharmaceutical development in India.[71] Indexed in databases such as Index Medicus, Scopus, and Copernicus, it serves as a key platform for disseminating clinical research, public health insights, and professional discourse among over 200,000 readers, including doctors in India and expatriate communities in the UK, USA, and Canada.[71] [72] Subscriptions extend to most medical colleges and libraries across India, underscoring its role in continuing medical education and policy advocacy aligned with IMA objectives.[72] JIMA traces its origins to March 1930, when the Indian Medical Association launched its inaugural journal titled Indian Medical World, with Sir Nil Ratan Sircar as editor and Dr. A. N. Ghosh as secretary; the final issue under this name appeared in August 1931.[71] The renaming to Journal of the Indian Medical Association occurred in September 1931, following a resolution at the 7th All India Medical Conference in Poona under Dr. Jivraj N. Mehta's presidency, without altering its foundational policies.[71] Founded by pioneers including Sir Nilratan Sircar, Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, and Dr. Kumud Sankar Ray alongside 122 initial contributors, the journal was governed by an All-India Editorial Board of 21 members from its outset.[71] Published monthly with ISSN 0019-5847, JIMA maintains open-access availability online at onlinejima.com, facilitating global digital access since its transition to a fully digital format.[72] It accepts submissions of original research articles, case reports, editorials, short communications, letters to the editor, novel hypotheses, and clinical trial protocols, provided they represent unpublished work (excluding abstracts from conferences).[72] The editorial process emphasizes contributions that enhance medical practice, public health initiatives, and ethical standards, reflecting IMA's advocacy for evidence-based medicine and professional autonomy.[72] While its SCImago Journal Rank stands at 0.11, indicating modest citation impact, JIMA's broad circulation—reportedly exceeding 1.75 lakh copies—positions it as India's highest-reaching medical periodical, prioritizing practical utility over high-impact metrics.[73]

Policy Papers, White Papers, and Reports

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) periodically issues white papers addressing public health threats, regulatory concerns, and professional guidelines, often in response to emerging issues or policy debates. These documents aim to inform members, policymakers, and the public with evidence-based recommendations grounded in modern medical practice.[74] White papers typically outline disease epidemiology, prevention strategies, and critiques of unregulated practices, reflecting IMA's advocacy for scientific rigor over unverified alternatives.[75] Notable white papers include the 2010 release on Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), which details transmission via ticks and infected livestock, emphasizing personal protective equipment, vector control, and laboratory diagnostics while warning against self-treatment in endemic areas like Gujarat and Rajasthan.[75] Similarly, the Zika Virus white paper describes the flavivirus's symptoms—fever, rash, and conjunctivitis—and mosquito-borne spread, urging surveillance, pregnant women precautions, and avoidance of unprotected sex in affected regions.[76] The Asthma white paper, released to guide diagnosis, stresses distinguishing cardiac wheeze from bronchial asthma post-40 years, peak flow monitoring, and adherence to inhaled corticosteroids over unproven remedies.[77] On regulatory matters, the white paper on online pharmacies opposes their operation without prescriptions, citing risks of drug substitution with substandard or counterfeit products that undermine patient safety and physician oversight.[78] The Telemedicine white paper endorses its use for consultations and follow-ups to improve access, but mandates registered medical practitioners, informed consent, data privacy, and avoidance of high-risk procedures remotely.[79] A paper on pharmacists invokes Medical Council of India regulations, requiring recognition of pharmacy's role while prohibiting non-physicians from diagnosing or prescribing, to curb overreach into clinical domains.[80] IMA's reports extend to systemic critiques, such as the 2020 National Working Group submission on Indian Medical Services to the government, advocating structured career progression, specialist training, and resource allocation for public health infrastructure amid physician shortages.[81] Additional outputs like the Health Friendly Homes white paper promote indoor air quality per WHO standards, ventilation, and allergen control to mitigate respiratory diseases.[82] These publications underscore IMA's position prioritizing verifiable medical evidence and professional autonomy against encroachments from unregulated sectors.[74]

Positions on Healthcare Debates

Stance Against Quackery and Unscientific Practices

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has consistently advocated for the eradication of quackery, defined as the practice of medicine by unqualified individuals or the promotion of unproven treatments without scientific evidence, emphasizing adherence to evidence-based allopathic standards. Established as a key pillar of its professional ethics, the IMA maintains an Anti-Quackery Wing dedicated to compiling legal provisions, court orders, and regulations to empower member doctors in combating unauthorized medical practice.[83] This stance underscores the association's position that quackery undermines public health by exposing patients to ineffective or harmful interventions, often leading to delayed proper treatment.[84] In response to perceived governmental leniency toward unqualified practitioners, the IMA has organized nationwide protests and strikes to highlight the dangers of institutionalizing quackery. For instance, on December 12, 2020, IMA-led doctors across India went on strike to protest amendments by the Central Council of Indian Medicine that purportedly allowed non-MBBS practitioners to perform modern surgical procedures, which the association condemned as an unscientific vivisection of evidence-based medicine.[85] Similarly, in October 2024, the IMA demanded a nationwide crackdown on quacks masquerading as modern medicine practitioners in states like Kerala, citing instances where unqualified individuals conducted invasive procedures without accountability.[84] These actions reflect the IMA's broader campaign to enforce the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956, and prevent the dilution of professional qualifications through policy loopholes.[86] A prominent example of the IMA's legal offensive against unscientific claims occurred in its 2021 petition to the Supreme Court of India challenging Patanjali Ayurved's advertisements for Coronil as a cure for COVID-19, alleging violations of the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954. The court, in proceedings spanning 2022–2025, held Patanjali and its founder Baba Ramdev in contempt for persisting with misleading endorsements that denigrated allopathy despite interim orders, fining them ₹1 crore in 2024 for non-compliance.[87][88] The case concluded on August 13, 2025, with the Supreme Court closing proceedings after Patanjali's repeated apologies and withdrawal of contested ads, though the IMA maintained that such rulings reinforce the need for stricter pre-approval mechanisms for health claims to curb public deception.[89][90] This litigation exemplified the IMA's commitment to challenging empirically unsubstantiated assertions, prioritizing patient safety over commercial interests in alternative remedies.

Views on Integration of Traditional Medicine (AYUSH)

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has maintained a firm opposition to the integration of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) systems with modern allopathic medicine, viewing such efforts as unscientific and detrimental to public health standards. The organization argues that blending traditional practices, which often lack rigorous empirical validation through randomized controlled trials and peer-reviewed evidence, with evidence-based allopathy dilutes medical professionalism and exposes patients to unproven interventions. This stance stems from concerns over "mixopathy," where AYUSH practitioners without equivalent training in modern pharmacology, diagnostics, and surgery attempt to prescribe allopathic drugs or perform procedures, potentially leading to misdiagnosis, adverse drug interactions, and higher morbidity rates.[91][92] In response to government proposals, such as a one-year bridge course for AYUSH doctors to enable modern medicine practice, the IMA has repeatedly protested, asserting that no abbreviated training can substitute for the comprehensive five-and-a-half-year MBBS curriculum plus internship required for allopathic licensure. For instance, in 2018, the IMA challenged Central Council of Indian Medicine notifications allowing AYUSH integration, leading to nationwide demonstrations on December 8, 2018, and legal actions emphasizing that such permissions violate the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956, by permitting unqualified crosspathy. Similarly, in May 2025, the IMA rejected plans for an integrated MBBS-BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) course, labeling it a "fraud on the nation" that prioritizes political agendas over causal mechanisms of disease treatment grounded in physiology and biochemistry.[93][94][95] The IMA's advocacy extends to anti-quackery campaigns, where it identifies unregulated AYUSH practice of allopathy—such as prescribing antibiotics or steroids without pathology training—as a primary vector for pseudoscientific harm, citing cases of treatment failures in infectious diseases and emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the IMA criticized Ministry of AYUSH endorsements of traditional remedies like herbal concoctions without phase III trials, arguing they divert from proven antivirals and vaccines, potentially increasing mortality in resource-limited settings. While acknowledging AYUSH's role in wellness or adjunctive care under strict separation, the IMA insists on parallel regulation: AYUSH confined to its doctrinal frameworks and allopathy to empirically derived protocols, with any convergence requiring AYUSH systems to undergo equivalent scientific scrutiny.[83][96][97]

Advocacy for Private Practice Autonomy

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has long advocated for the autonomy of private medical practitioners, emphasizing self-regulation by professionals over bureaucratic oversight to preserve the independence of clinical decision-making and practice management. This stance stems from the association's foundational commitment to safeguarding the profession's autonomy against perceived encroachments by government entities, arguing that excessive regulation undermines efficiency and innovation in private healthcare delivery.[2] A key example of this advocacy occurred in opposition to the National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill, introduced in 2019, which IMA criticized for centralizing control under a government-dominated body, thereby eroding the autonomy historically enjoyed by bodies like the Medical Council of India (MCI). In a letter to the Prime Minister, IMA demanded autonomy for medical regulators, including elected representation and a single-window registration system for hospitals, while rejecting the NMC's structure as overly bureaucratic and prone to political interference.[98][99] The association argued that such reforms would diminish professional self-governance, with IMA's clarifications highlighting the need for commissions comprising elected members to reflect true autonomy rather than top-down appointments.[99] IMA has similarly resisted the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, which mandates registration, fee standardization, and operational norms for private clinics and hospitals across participating states. The association opposed the legislation on grounds that it imposes rigid controls on private entities without adequate professional input, potentially stifling small practitioners and favoring public sector dominance.[100] In 2013, IMA's secretary general publicly urged policymakers to enact laws promoting private sector growth, contending that existing frameworks hinder expansion and autonomy in non-public healthcare.[101] Further demonstrations of this position include nationwide protests planned in December 2020 against central government medical reforms, where IMA members withdrew non-essential services to highlight threats to private practice independence from policy impositions like expanded regulatory mandates.[102] The association has also opposed government interference in MCI operations, as evidenced by emergency resolutions from state branches condemning administrative overreach that compromises professional autonomy.[103] While IMA maintains zero tolerance for unethical practices within private settings, it has resisted provisions like criminal penalties for referral fees (cut practices) in anti-corruption laws, viewing them as disproportionate intrusions into practitioner freedoms.[104] These efforts underscore IMA's broader push for a regulatory environment that prioritizes professional judgment and market-driven operations in private medicine.

Controversies and Criticisms

Legal Battles Over Misleading Medical Claims

In August 2022, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court of India against Patanjali Ayurved Limited, its promoters Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, and the Union of India, challenging advertisements that allegedly made unsubstantiated claims of curing diseases such as COVID-19 using the Coronil kit and other products, while disparaging allopathic medicine as ineffective or harmful.[105][106] The IMA argued these claims violated the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, and misled consumers by promoting unproven efficacy without scientific evidence.[105] The Supreme Court issued notices to the respondents and, in November 2023, held Patanjali and its promoters in contempt for continuing misleading advertisements despite an earlier undertaking to cease such promotions pending regulatory approval.[88][89] The court directed Patanjali to issue public apologies in 10 newspapers, emphasizing the gravity of false medical claims that could endanger public health by delaying evidence-based treatments.[107] Patanjali complied with multiple apologies, but the bench, comprising Justices Hima Kohli and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, imposed a fine of ₹1 crore on Acharya Balkrishna in March 2024 for non-compliance with prior orders.[108] The proceedings expanded to critique broader regulatory lapses, with the court observing in May 2024 that self-regulatory bodies like the Advertising Standards Council of India had failed to curb misleading health ads effectively, urging stricter government oversight.[109] In a related hearing, the court reprimanded IMA president R.V. Asokan for public statements perceived as undermining judicial proceedings, though it upheld the association's right to advocate against quackery.[110] On August 11, 2025, the Supreme Court disposed of the IMA's petition, closing the case after noting Patanjali's repeated apologies and the Centre's deletion of Rule 170 under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, which had mandated prior approval for Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani drug advertisements.[88][89] This ruling lifted a prior stay on the rule's removal, potentially easing ad restrictions for traditional medicine but raising concerns from the IMA about unchecked misleading claims.[106][111] The outcome highlighted tensions between protecting consumers from unverified health assertions and regulatory reforms favoring AYUSH systems, without imposing further penalties on Patanjali beyond prior fines.[112]

Role and Responses During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) actively disseminated clinical guidelines for COVID-19 management, including protocols for vaccination, antiviral therapies, and handling comorbidities such as pregnancy, lung fibrosis, and mental health issues, with updates issued as early as May 2020.[113] The organization also tracked and publicized the deaths of physicians from the virus, reporting 515 Indian doctors lost by October 2, 2020, and dedicating their sacrifices to the nation on Gandhi Jayanti.[114] By June 2021, IMA documented 798 doctor deaths during the second wave alone, with Delhi reporting the highest toll at 128, underscoring the disproportionate risks faced by healthcare workers lacking adequate personal protective equipment.[115] IMA advocated for enhanced protections for doctors, including appeals to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 7, 2021, to curb assaults on medical personnel and combat misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines, while pushing for universal free vaccination for adults above 18 years.[116] The association criticized government mandates converting private hospitals, particularly in smaller towns, into dedicated COVID-19 facilities without sufficient infrastructure like ventilators or isolation units, arguing this overburdened underprepared institutions.[117] In July 2020, IMA opposed Assam's health department orders compelling private practitioners to perform COVID duties deemed "whimsical" and logistically unfeasible, highlighting risks to patient safety and physician welfare.[118] A major point of contention was IMA's rejection of government-endorsed AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) protocols for COVID-19 prevention and treatment, issued by the Health Ministry on October 7, 2020, which recommended herbal remedies like Giloy and Ashwagandha alongside yoga.[119] On October 8, 2020, IMA stated there was "no evidence" to classify Ayurveda as a proven COVID-19 medicine, questioning Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on the scientific basis and challenging whether any IMA members had relied on such interventions.[120] [121] This stance, rooted in demands for randomized controlled trial evidence absent for these traditional remedies, drew backlash including defamation notices from AYUSH practitioners accusing IMA of maligning indigenous systems as "placebos."[122] IMA maintained that promoting unverified alternatives amid a crisis invoking false security, especially without peer-reviewed efficacy data, undermined evidence-based allopathic responses.[123] During the second wave peaking in April-May 2021, IMA organized protests against the government's "lacklustre" preparedness, including oxygen shortages and delayed vaccinations, marking a rare public mobilization by the physicians' body to demand accountability.[124] These efforts highlighted systemic gaps, such as inadequate state-level epidemic management under the National Rapid Response Team, while IMA continued issuing advisories against unauthorized political relaxations of safeguards that contributed to case surges.[125][126]

Internal Issues: Corruption Allegations and Member Discipline

In September 2024, the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), representing junior doctors, alleged corruption and electoral irregularities within the Indian Medical Association (IMA), claiming that large sums—reportedly in lakhs of rupees—were collected from members for nominations without transparency or accountability.[38] [39] FAIMA further asserted that key national positions were filled unopposed, bypassing competitive elections, and urged the IMA's Chief Election Commissioner to investigate, while calling for the reconsideration of Ketan Desai's role as chief patron due to his prior 2010 arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for accepting a Rs 2 crore bribe as Medical Council of India president—a case in which charges were later withdrawn, enabling his 2016 election as World Medical Association president with IMA support.[32] [127] These claims, raised in a letter dated September 1, 2024, highlight tensions between established and emerging medical groups but remain unproven, with no formal IMA admission of wrongdoing or independent verification reported as of October 2025.[128] The IMA maintains an internal disciplinary framework to address member misconduct, including a mediation cell for patient-doctor disputes and penalties ranging from warnings to censure, the mildest formal penalty, as upheld in judicial precedents like M. Basheer Ahmad vs. R. Govindarajulu (2001).[70] A prominent recent application occurred on August 28, 2024, when the IMA's national disciplinary committee unanimously suspended the membership of Dr. Sandip Ghosh, former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital and vice president of the IMA's Calcutta branch, following grievances from the parents of a trainee doctor allegedly raped and murdered at the facility.[129] [130] IMA President Dr. R.V. Asokan stated that the committee acted on cognizance of complaints regarding Ghosh's handling of the incident, including misleading information about the victim's death and failure to facilitate family access, deeming it a source of disrepute to the profession amid an ongoing CBI probe.[131] This swift action underscores the IMA's mechanism for enforcing ethical standards, though critics note occasional defenses of members in external regulatory disputes, such as urging restraint against disciplinary measures in isolated negligence cases.[132]

Achievements and Impact

Contributions to Medical Policy and Legislation

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has actively engaged in shaping medical legislation through submissions to parliamentary committees, policy manifestos, and campaigns advocating for reforms in professional regulation and patient safety. In response to the National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill, 2017, and its 2019 enactment replacing the Medical Council of India, the IMA opposed provisions such as Section 32, which permitted limited practice licenses for non-MBBS community health providers, arguing it undermined medical education standards and patient safety; this stance contributed to public discourse and partial modifications in regulatory oversight mechanisms, though the core bill passed amid widespread protests by medical bodies including IMA.[133][134] Similarly, IMA's advocacy influenced ethical guidelines under the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956, by promoting updates to professional conduct regulations that emphasize evidence-based practice and anti-quackery measures.[135] A significant contribution lies in IMA's push for legislation addressing violence against healthcare workers. Since the early 2010s, IMA has campaigned for a central law, highlighting inefficacy of 23 state-level enactments and submitting white papers and representations to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; this advocacy, including nationwide protests and endorsements from bodies like the Indian Medical Students Association, has elevated the issue in national policy debates, prompting government acknowledgments and proposals for stringent central protections, such as declaring hospitals as "safe zones" with mandatory FIRs for assaults.[53][136][137] Through its 2024 Health Manifesto, IMA recommended legislative amendments, including revisions to the NMC Act for enhanced accreditation and financial autonomy in medical education, replacement of the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010, with voluntary accreditation to reduce regulatory burdens on small hospitals, and integration of antimicrobial resistance controls into national health policy via multi-stakeholder frameworks.[53] These positions, drawn from consultations with over 400,000 members, have informed government responses on health financing—urging allocation increases to 2.5% of GDP—and public-private partnerships in programs like tuberculosis elimination, where IMA trained 234,377 doctors under Global Fund initiatives since 1997, influencing policy implementation guidelines.[53][3] IMA's interventions prioritize empirical standards over expansive state control, reflecting its role as a counterbalance to regulatory overreach in India's mixed healthcare system.

International Engagement and Global Influence

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) played a foundational role in establishing the World Medical Association (WMA) in 1946, serving as one of the constituent members that organized the global body representing national medical associations.[3] This involvement positioned IMA as an early contributor to international medical ethics and standards, with ongoing membership enabling participation in WMA's policy development on issues such as professional conduct and public health emergencies.[2] Through WMA, IMA representatives have attended council meetings, including the 209th session in Riga, Latvia, to influence resolutions on global medical practice.[138] IMA has hosted significant international events to foster global collaboration, including the WMA Council meeting in Delhi in 2009 and the III World Conference on Medical Education under joint auspices with international bodies.[22] [2] These gatherings facilitated dialogue among over 40 national medical associations on topics like medical education reform and ethical guidelines, enhancing IMA's visibility in shaping transnational standards.[139] Additionally, IMA maintains formal affiliations with the British Medical Association and Nepal Medical Association, providing platforms for cross-border professional exchange and advocacy on shared regional health challenges.[22] As a member of the Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania (CMAAO), IMA extends its influence across the region, contributing to policy discussions on Asia-Pacific health priorities while aligning domestic positions with broader international frameworks, such as those from WMA on digital health strategies.[140] [53] This engagement underscores IMA's role in bridging Indian medical practice with global norms, though its impact remains primarily facilitative through representation rather than direct policymaking authority.[141]

Measurable Outcomes in Public Health and Professional Standards

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has contributed to public health through large-scale training and awareness programs, including sensitizing over 400,000 doctors on women's health issues via the Mission Pink Health Project to address gender-specific vulnerabilities such as anemia and reproductive health.[53] In tuberculosis control, IMA conducted more than 10,000 continuing medical education (CME) programs and 100 workshops since 1997, training 234,377 doctors to enhance detection and treatment adherence, aligning with national elimination goals by 2025.[53] For HIV/AIDS prevention, IMA partnered with the Clinton Foundation to train nearly 400,000 health personnel, improving counseling and testing protocols in high-burden areas.[53] IMA supported national vaccination efforts, including the Pulse Polio Immunization program, which contributed to India's certification as polio-free by the World Health Organization on March 27, 2014, after no wild poliovirus cases since January 2011.[53] [142] During the COVID-19 pandemic, IMA operated a helpline handling over 2 million calls for guidance on symptoms and protocols, while its 1,700 branches distributed essential equipment and food kits to underserved communities.[53] Additionally, IMA organized over 2,500 blood donation camps in 2022 and operates approximately 160 blood banks nationwide, bolstering emergency transfusion availability.[53] In professional standards, IMA enforces a code of medical ethics derived from the Indian Medical Council regulations, emphasizing rational drug use, patient confidentiality, and avoidance of misleading advertisements, with over 367,774 members bound by these guidelines as of 2024.[53] [143] The association provides legal support to members facing professional crises, influencing state-level Medicare Service Persons legislation in multiple regions to protect practitioners from unwarranted litigation.[141] IMA's advocacy has promoted uniform ethical branding in healthcare, addressing inconsistencies in advertising and corporate influences, though enforcement relies on collaboration with regulatory bodies like the National Medical Commission.[144]

Recent Developments

Post-2020 Reforms and Challenges

Following the establishment of the National Medical Commission (NMC) in 2020 as a replacement for the Medical Council of India, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) voiced persistent concerns over its implementation, arguing that it replicated the predecessor's flaws in governance and oversight despite initial acclaim as a "historic reform." By mid-2025, IMA highlighted issues such as inadequate addressing of professional concerns during the NMC Act's enactment and failures in curbing irregularities in medical education approvals.[145][146][147] Internally, the IMA faced challenges from allegations of electoral irregularities and potential corruption, particularly raised by the Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) in September 2024, which urged an investigation into nomination processes involving large member fees and questioned the integrity of leadership elections. These claims prompted calls for probes by IMA's Central Election Committee, amid broader scrutiny of financial transparency within professional bodies. Externally, the IMA campaigned against corruption in state medical councils, demanding the dissolution of the West Bengal Medical Council in September 2024, labeling it an "epicentre of corruption" linked to lapses in doctor registration and oversight.[148][127][149] Post-2020, the IMA advocated for systemic reforms through its 2024 Health Manifesto, emphasizing increased health budget allocations to 5% of GDP, enhanced rural infrastructure, and stricter antibiotic stewardship to combat resistance, while addressing post-pandemic workforce strains like elevated doctor mortality rates from 2018-2023. Challenges persisted in violence against physicians, with IMA surveys indicating over 75% facing workplace aggression, including physical assaults, exacerbating retention issues in high-stress settings. Regulatory pressures intensified with Central Bureau of Investigation probes into NMC-linked bribes for college approvals by July 2025, underscoring IMA's push for ethical reforms amid ongoing ethical enforcement gaps.[53][150][151][152]

Ongoing Advocacy Amid Regulatory Pressures

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has sustained efforts to challenge aspects of the National Medical Commission's (NMC) regulatory framework, viewing certain provisions as erosive to professional standards and clinical autonomy established under the erstwhile Medical Council of India (MCI). Following the NMC Act's implementation in 2020, IMA has repeatedly contested regulations perceived to enable "cross-pathy" practices, where practitioners of alternative systems like homeopathy (BHMS) or Ayurveda encroach on allopathic domains without equivalent training. In September 2025, IMA demanded the Maharashtra government halt a notification permitting BHMS doctors' registration with the Maharashtra Medical Council within seven days, threatening escalation to a statewide strike, citing violations of NMC norms and prior high court rulings against such practices.[153] IMA's advocacy extends to opposing NMC-mandated administrative burdens, such as the Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance system rolled out in medical colleges, which the association and critics argue imposes logistical strains without enhancing oversight efficacy, particularly in rural or under-resourced institutions. This stance aligns with broader critiques of NMC's centralization, including delays in operationalizing patient grievance mechanisms like appeals to the Ethics and Medical Registration Board, where no cases have been adjudicated five years post-establishment.[154][155] Concurrently, IMA has pushed for stringent regulatory protections against violence targeting healthcare workers, highlighting over 30 state-level laws as insufficient and advocating a unified central legislation amid rising incidents, including a October 2025 case in Phaltan that prompted threats of collective action by IMA-affiliated bodies.[137][156] These initiatives reflect IMA's strategy of leveraging protests, legal interventions, and policy submissions to counterbalance regulatory expansions that it contends prioritize quantity in medical education over quality, such as relaxed faculty recruitment criteria introduced in 2025. While NMC defends such measures as necessary for scaling India's medical workforce to meet demand—evidenced by approvals for over 100 new colleges annually—IMA maintains they risk diluting evidentiary-based practice without commensurate infrastructure gains.[157][158] The association's positions, often articulated through national campaigns, underscore tensions between governmental reform imperatives and practitioner-led safeguards for patient safety and ethical integrity.

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  154. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/doctors-bodies-threaten-statewide-strike-over-phaltan-doctor-s-death-seek-fair-probe-101761503965316.html
  155. India relaxes medical college recruitment rules, raising education ...
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