New Delhi: In a significant move to curb absenteeism among postgraduate dental students, the Dental Council of India (DCI) has directed all universities and dental colleges across the country to strictly ensure a minimum of 80 per cent biometric attendance for PG students before allowing them to appear in examinations.
According to a public circular issued by the Dental Council of India, a statutory body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, the decision was taken following multiple complaints received from dental colleges in Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh regarding non-attendance of PG students.
The matter was examined by the Grievance Sub-Committee of the DCI in its meeting held on November 24, 2025. After detailed discussion and deliberation, the committee recommended that all universities and dental colleges must ensure compliance with Regulation 18(a)(i) of the DCI Master of Dental Surgery Course Regulations, 2017, which mandates at least 80 per cent attendance.
The circular further stated that the recommendation of the Grievance Sub-Committee has been approved by the Executive Committee of the Dental Council of India through circulation and has now been formally communicated for information and necessary action.
“All universities and dental colleges are directed to ensure minimum 80 per cent biometric attendance of all PG students before permitting them to appear in examinations,” the DCI said in the circular.
The order has been signed by Mukesh Kumar, Deputy Secretary, Dental Council of India, and is expected to be implemented with immediate effect across the country. —(KNC)
