The Maharashtra Government has directed the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) to begin the registration of Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP) trained Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) practitioners, a move that has triggered strong opposition from the Indian Medical Association (IMA). The decision follows the issuance of a Government Resolution (GR), with the IMA launching a statewide strike, alleging that the policy blurs the distinction between modern medicine and homeopathy and raises concerns over patient safety. The development has reignited debate over cross practice and the scope of medical practice in India.

The Government Resolution, issued on August 3, 2026, instructs the Maharashtra Medical Council to commence the registration of eligible CCMP-BHMS practitioners. Confirming the directive, MMC Registrar Dr. Rakesh Waghmare stated that the registration process would begin in accordance with the government’s order. The CCMP programme enables qualified BHMS graduates who have completed the prescribed pharmacology training to prescribe specified modern medicines under the provisions of the Maharashtra Medical Practitioners Act, a policy that has remained a subject of legal and professional debate for several years.

Opposing the decision, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Maharashtra, announced a statewide strike, arguing that permitting homeopathy graduates to practise modern medicine could compromise patient safety and dilute professional standards. The association reiterated its long-standing demand that only doctors with recognised MBBS qualifications and appropriate postgraduate training should be authorised to practise allopathic medicine. The IMA also urged the state government to reconsider the decision and initiate broader consultations with medical professionals before implementing the registration process.

Supporters of the policy, however, contend that CCMP trained BHMS practitioners can help address shortages of healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to MBBS doctors remains limited. Maharashtra has previously introduced the CCMP programme to equip homeopathy graduates with basic pharmacology knowledge to strengthen primary healthcare delivery. Health officials maintain that practitioners registered under the scheme are required to comply with the regulatory provisions laid down by the state government and the Maharashtra Medical Council.

The latest development comes amid India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare accessibility while maintaining quality standards. According to the National Health Profile, India continues to face a shortage of qualified medical professionals in several rural regions, making workforce optimisation a key policy priority. Healthcare experts believe the implementation of the CCMP-BHMS registration policy will require robust regulatory oversight, clearly defined clinical responsibilities and strict monitoring to ensure patient safety while addressing the growing demand for primary healthcare services across Maharashtra.