The health services in Haryana continued to be affected in many districts as the strike by National Health Mission (NHM) workers entered its third day on Thursday.
The two-day strike of NHM workers had begun on Tuesday but after receiving no response from the Haryana Government, the workers had announced to extend their strike till December 8.
Over 12000 NHM workers are demanding implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission report, regularization of their services besides other things. The NHM workers are employed at primary health centres, urban health centres and ambulance services across the state.
On the demands of NHM workers, Health Minister Anil Vij on Thursday said that out of the three main demands raised by the employees of National Health Mission, two had been met. Their wages have been increased by three per cent and their service rules have been framed which have been put forth before Chief Minister for final approval, Vij said.
Their third demand regarding regularisation relates to the Central Government, on which the Centre alone can take a decision. The State Government can not regularize their services, he said. When asked to comment on healthcare services being affected due to the strike, Vij claimed that permanent staff is working in healthcare centres and there is no problem due to the strike.
On being asked whether the government has held talks to NHM workers to resolve their problems, the Minister said that NHM Direction is holding talks with the workers and we are hopeful to resolve their issues.