A total of 1,016 doctor posts are now lying vacant in different Government hospitals against a total sanctioned strength of 4,842.
Health Minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak informed this in the Assembly on Friday. Replying to a question of MlA Kailash Chandra Kuleshika, the Minsiter said steps are now being taken to fill up these vacant posts through the Odisha Public Services Commission, departmental promotions and appointments though ad hoc and contract basis.
The Minister further informed that retired doctors have been requested to provide services on contract basis in view of regular doctor scarcity.
To a question related to the Sardhar Rajas Medical College, Kalahandi, the Minister said the MoU of the Selvam Educaional and Charitable Trust which had established the medical college has been cancelled for violation of norms. The Western Odisha Development Council has filed an FIR against the trust at the Junagarh police station
and asked it to refund Rs 10 crore at the rate of 10 per cent interest.
The trust had been given 25 acres of land free of cost and a grant of Rs 10 crore from the WODC funds, the Minister informed.