India — Radiography Practice & Professional Registration
India has a growing healthcare sector with increasing demand for qualified radiographers. The profession is regulated at both national and state levels, with various educational pathways and registration requirements. Understanding the regulatory landscape is essential for both domestic and international radiographers seeking to practice in India.
India — Regulatory Framework and Professional Registration
National Regulatory Framework — NCAHP Act, 2021
The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Act, 2021 establishes a statutory framework for regulating recognised allied and healthcare professions in India. The framework includes a National Commission and State Allied and Healthcare Councils.
The Act provides for professional standards, education standards and registration arrangements for recognised allied and healthcare professions. Radiography and medical imaging professionals should check the applicable professional category and current requirements with the relevant authority.
State and Union Territory Implementation
Implementation of the framework is continuing across India.
According to a Ministry of Health and Family Welfare update dated 31 July 2026, 29 States and Union Territories had constituted State Allied and Healthcare Councils for implementation of the Act. The constitution of a council does not, by itself, confirm that a radiographer registration process is currently operational in that state or territory.
Registration arrangements may differ according to the state or union territory, the applicant's qualification and the applicable professional category. Applicants should confirm the current position directly with the relevant State Council or competent authority.
AHPR Enrolment — Important Distinction
The official Allied and Healthcare Professionals Enrolment Portal (AHPR) states that enrolment is for professional data collection and is not professional registration.
The portal also states that registration regulations are under process and that the registration process will begin after the regulations are notified following verification by State Councils.
Therefore, AHPR enrolment should not be described as a professional registration certificate or as automatic authorisation to practise.
Official resource: Allied and Healthcare Professionals Enrolment Portal
https://ahpr.abdm.gov.in/home
Source note: State Council implementation status and AHPR information should be reviewed periodically because the regulatory framework is evolving.
Professional Bodies
Professional associations support the development of radiography and medical imaging professionals through education, professional networking, publications, conferences and advocacy.
Professional association membership is separate from statutory registration or licensing. Applicants should check the requirements of the relevant regulator or competent authority for professional registration.
Indian Society of Radiographers & Technologists (ISRT)
The Indian Society of Radiographers & Technologists (ISRT) is a professional organisation serving radiographers and radiological technology professionals.
Its stated activities include:
- Continuing professional education and training.
- Professional development and capacity building.
- Sharing updates on radiological technology and clinical practice.
- Publications and educational resources.
- Professional networking through regional and state chapters.
- Promoting radiation safety and awareness of medical imaging.
ISRT also describes activities relating to professional recognition and membership. These should not be presented as equivalent to statutory registration by a government regulator.
Official website: https://isrt.org.in/
Society of Indian Radiographers (SIR)
The Society of Indian Radiographers (SIR) is a professional association focused on the welfare, development and professional interests of radiographers and radiological technologists.
Its stated objectives include:
- Promoting professional development and academic excellence.
- Encouraging conferences, seminars and professional discussion.
- Supporting research and professional publications.
- Promoting ethical and professional standards.
- Encouraging cooperation among professional associations.
- Supporting the development and recognition of the radiography profession.
SIR's website lists affiliated state and regional associations. Visitors should check the association's official website for current information about its activities and affiliations.
Official website: https://www.radiographers.org/
Important clarification: ISRT and SIR are professional associations. Their membership, activities or professional recognition should not be described as a replacement for registration with a statutory authority where registration is required.
Other state or regional radiographer associations may also operate. Do not describe ISRT or SIR as the only professional bodies in India.
Current status: Regulatory arrangements are evolving. Always confirm the latest registration requirements, forms, fees and eligibility criteria with the relevant State Council or competent authority before applying or accepting a post.
Note: Details of state level legal and statutory requirements are provided in the state level contents