What Did Odisha Minister Say About Talks with OMSA Regarding Doctors' Demands?
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Synopsis
Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling reassures that the state is actively reviewing the demands of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) and aims to resolve issues soon. Amid ongoing protests, the government is establishing a high-level committee to address the doctors' needs effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's Health Minister is reviewing the demands of the medical professionals.
- A high-level committee has been formed to address these issues.
- OMSA is advocating for an 18-point charter of demands.
- Doctors have expressed their intent to continue protests until their needs are met.
- The government's commitment to resolving these demands is under scrutiny.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 1 (NationPress) The Health Minister of Odisha, Mukesh Mahaling, announced on Thursday that the state government is currently reviewing the requests made by the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA). Efforts are being made to meet the reasonable expectations of doctors shortly.
In a media briefing, Mahaling stated, “I have personally engaged in discussions with OMSA on two occasions. Additionally, we have conducted formal talks with the association, demonstrating our government's commitment to addressing the doctors’ requests over the last 16 months. The previous administration let them down, but they have confidence in our leadership.”
He further mentioned that a high-level committee has been established by the state government, chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary of the General Administration and Public Grievance (GA&PG) Department, to evaluate the demands presented by the medical professionals.
This committee comprises secretaries from the Health, Finance, and Law departments as members. The minister indicated that he is closely communicating with the committee and is optimistic that a resolution will be reached soon.
The doctors’ association has been protesting for an extended period regarding an 18-point list of demands. These requests include the implementation of the Central Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP), inclusion of dental and ad hoc doctors under DACP, the KBK (Kalahandi–Balangir–Koraput) Exit Policy, authorization for transferring medical officers after a five-year tenure in KBK regions, a transparent transfer policy, restructuring of cadres, enhanced safety for medical officers at health facilities statewide, and health insurance coverage for all medical practitioners.
In a conversation with IANS, OMSA president Kishore Chandra Mishra remarked, “The previous administration formed a ministerial committee to evaluate our demands, but it yielded no results. The current government has now set up a secretarial committee. Is it justifiable to postpone a decision on the legitimate requests of doctors by merely forming committees?”
He also stated that doctors would persist with their protests until their legitimate demands are met by the state government.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare professionals in Odisha. This situation highlights the importance of addressing the legitimate concerns of doctors to ensure a robust healthcare system. The government's proactive approach could pave the way for improved relations and healthcare delivery in the state. The balance between administrative processes and timely responses to demands will be crucial moving forward.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the discussions held by Odisha Health Minister?
The discussions primarily focus on reviewing the demands of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) and addressing the reasonable expectations of doctors.
What are some key demands made by the doctors' association?
Key demands include the implementation of the Central Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP), safety and security for medical officers, and a transparent transfer policy.
Has the government formed any committees to address these demands?
Yes, the Odisha government has constituted a high-level committee chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary to evaluate the doctors' demands.
What actions are doctors taking regarding their demands?
Doctors are continuing their protests until their legitimate demands are addressed by the state government.
How has the previous government affected the current situation?
The previous government is perceived to have let the doctors down, which has contributed to the ongoing protests and demands for change.
