ES Reporter

 

ITANAGAR, Aug 14: Reiterating its demands, the Arunachal Pradesh Doctors’ Association (APDA) has sought the intervention of Chief Minister Pema Khandu for realising their long-pending demands.

Speaking to reporters at the Press Club today, President APDA Dr. Emi Rumi informed that regarding their pending demands, the association has re-submitted the memorandum to the Chief Minister. “APDA is demanding appointment to various posts in the Health Department as per civil seniority, NPA, holding of timely DPC and benefits and time-bound promotion under DACP since issue of notification to the serving doctors. De-cadre of DHS post and engagement of unskilled contingency staff against doctors appointed after 2008 is still pending,” the APDA President informed.

“State government is awarding medals and certificates to recognize the contributions of health workers, but the true award for doctors would be implementation of NPA (Non-practicing Allowance), which is pending till date,” Dr. Rumi stated. Responding to the query on strengthening the state’s health sector, President APDA acknowledged that health services in the state were never given due importance before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many district hospitals, Community Health Centres and Primary Health Centres are existing on paper without any real facilities and health staff, he said, reiterating the need to strengthen them along with creating tertiary and super specialty centres both in rural and urban areas as per needs.