The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has announced the discontinuation of its practice of authorizing State Level Directorates of Radiation Safety (DRS), citing evolving regulatory strategies and the lapse of existing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). This public notice was issued on April 11, 2025.
In the late 1990s, the AERB initiated the establishment of State Level DRS to enhance the regulatory oversight of medical diagnostic X-ray facilities across India. The first authorization was granted to the Government of Kerala in March 1999, and subsequently, MOUs were signed with other state governments to facilitate the functioning of DRS.
However, the AERB has now revealed that all existing MOUs with state governments have lapsed, and no DRS currently operates with valid authorization. Based on experience feedback and the development of more robust regulatory control mechanisms by the AERB, the board has decided to discontinue the practice of issuing further authorizations to State Level DRS.
The decision reflects the AERB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its regulatory framework for medical diagnostic X-ray facilities. The board has implemented various initiatives and developed new strategies to ensure the safety and compliance of these facilities, rendering the previous DRS model less necessary.
The discontinuation of DRS authorization signifies a shift in the AERB’s regulatory approach. State governments will now need to rely on the AERB’s centralized regulatory framework and its evolving initiatives for the oversight of radiation safety in medical diagnostic X-ray facilities.
