Mumbai, July 1: On Doctor’s Day, Maharashtra’s Minister of Public Health and Family Welfare, Prakash Abitkar, announced the cabinet’s approval for the recruitment of 5,000 new positions in the public health department. This decision aims to address the staffing shortages in the state’s medical centers.
The recruitment process is set to accelerate this week. In a timely move, 1,400 appointment letters for doctors are being issued immediately, with an additional 600 doctors to be recruited shortly.
Furthermore, following directives from the High Court, 1,900 Community Health Officer (CHO) positions will also be filled soon.
Minister Abitkar stated that with these new approvals and immediate doctor appointments, all hospitals in the state will soon be equipped with the necessary staff, medical equipment, and facilities.
In response to a question from MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar, Minister Abitkar confirmed that pending funds for sub-district hospitals will be released within a week. The state has prioritized funding for construction projects, focusing first on hospital buildings that are 50%, 70%, 75%, and 90% complete.
Payments for outstanding dues to ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and other contractual staff who served during the COVID-19 pandemic will also be prioritized.
Taking a firm stance against third-party recruitment agencies that violate rules regarding contractual staff salaries, provident fund (PF), and ESIC compliance, the minister revealed that two to three agencies have already been blacklisted. He indicated that criminal cases would be filed against guilty organizations if necessary.
Additionally, Minister Abitkar announced that the health department will soon implement a standard operating procedure (SOP) for all nursing colleges in Maharashtra to ensure strict discipline, regularity, and the safety of students. This information was shared in response to a concern raised by MLA Praveen Datke regarding a reported food poisoning incident at the government nursing training school under the Gondia District General Hospital.
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