Argus News - Odisha Health Minister Assures Action on Doctors’ Demands

Bhubaneswar, Jan 1: Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Thursday said the state government is actively examining the demands of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) and assured that efforts are under way to fulfil all reasonable demands of doctors in the coming days.
Government–Doctors Dialogue
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Mahaling noted that he has personally held discussions with OMSA twice, in addition to official-level talks. “Our government has shown seriousness in addressing the doctors’ demands over the past 16 months. They were cheated by the previous government, but they have faith in us,” he said.
High-Level Committee Formed
The Minister announced that a high-level committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of the Additional Chief Secretary of the General Administration and Public Grievance Department to examine the demands. The committee includes secretaries of the Health, Finance, and Law departments. Mr. Mahaling said he is in regular touch with the committee and expressed hope that a decision would be taken soon.
OMSA’s Charter of Demands
Doctors under OMSA have been agitating for a long time over an 18-point charter of demands. These include 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, permission for transfer of medical officers posted in KBK areas after completion of their five-year tenure, a transparent transfer policy, cadre restructuring, safety and security for medical officers, and health insurance coverage for all doctors.
OMSA’s Response
OMSA president Kishore Chandra Mishra expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the previous government had also formed a ministerial committee but failed to deliver results. “The present government has now formed a secretarial committee. Is it right to delay a decision on fulfilling the rightful demands of doctors under the pretext of forming committees?” he asked. Mishra added that doctors would continue their protest until their demands are met.
The issue remains a critical test for the state government, which has promised to balance administrative processes with the urgent needs of medical professionals.