Healthcare regulations introduced in Haryana and Punjab

The Haryana Health Department has mandated a Healthcare Professional Registry (HPR) ID for all eligible medical practitioners in the state. This requirement includes doctors, dentists, AYUSH practitioners, nurses, and pharmacists. Under a notification issued on 30 October 2026, professionals without an HPR ID during registration or renewal will receive a 90-day provisional registration period to obtain one through the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) portal. Failure to comply within this window will result in the suspension of provisional registration.

In Punjab, the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) has issued new directives regarding hospital uniforms for facilities with more than 30 beds. The mandate requires hospitals to provide prescribed attire for doctors, paramedical staff, and sanitation workers to enhance infection control and patient safety. The commission also encouraged a “bare below elbow” policy to improve hygiene and requested that clinical clothing, such as scrubs and white coats, not be worn outside hospital premises to prevent the spread of contaminants.