Retirement Age Hike Good News: In a historic decision, the Uttarakhand government has raised the retirement age for specialist doctors serving in the state from 60 years to 65 years. The major decision is being viewed as a considerable step forward to strengthen health services in the state. Orders related to this were given by State Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar.
About 550 specialist doctors of the state will benefit from this policy decision. It is beneficial not only for the doctors but will also give the state health services a new direction. Especially in the remote rural areas, where the shortage of specialist doctors has been a major challenge, this decision is expected to come to the aid.
Important Changes In Service onditions
Decisions would be made in such a manner that, after completing the age of sixty years, specialist doctors will no longer be burdened with administrative and financial responsibilities. This would rather appoint them as the main consultants, enabling them to help patients with their expertise. This arrangement is beneficial for the doctors to render their services without being bogged down with administrative responsibilities.
Salary And Benefits
These doctors will be given salary increases and other service benefits, consistent with state employees. However, the doctors working after attaining the age of sixty will not be provided with the benefit of advance promotion, and this rule will apply both during service and at the time of retirement.
Health Service Advancement Initiative
Describing the decision as a step forward towards improving the state’s health services, the Health Minister of Uttarakhand stated that the state government is firmly committed to providing better health services to the common man. The rapidly changing health services in the state will be put on fast track by such a decision.
The Demand Of The Employees And The Stand Of The Govt.
It is pertinent to mention that raising the retirement age had been a long-standing demand of employees across different sections. This demand was being raised by Central employees from the Central Governments and State employees from State Governments. Till date, this arrangement has been applicable only to the specialist doctors of Uttarakhand.
Impact On Rural Health Services.
This decision holds special importance for the rural areas. It will prove helpful in ensuring that specialist doctors are available in the remote areas. This will help the rural population gain access to high-quality health services.
Benefit Of Professional Expertise.
With the service of the specialist doctors after age 60, the state can tap into the knowledge and experience of such doctors, which is most valuable in the event of complicated medical cases where experienced doctors’ input is paramount.
Also Read: Pension New Rules 2025: The Biggest Change In The Pension Rules, know The Guidelines