Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav handed over appointment orders to the newly appointed doctors at a program in Vijayawada on Friday. | Photo credit: GN RAO
The Andhra Pradesh government has filled nearly 9,000 health posts in the last 20 months as part of its efforts to strengthen medical services and ensure better access to healthcare for the poor, Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav said, adding that the large-scale recruitment has created an additional annual burden of around ₹350 crore.
During Friday’s speech at the event at the University of Health Sciences, Dr. In Vijayawada, NTR said the appointments include around 2,000 doctors, 5,800 mid-level medical staff and 1,200 ASHA workers. As part of the government’s “zero vacancy” policy aimed at strengthening healthcare facilities, around 450 vacancies are filled every month on average.
During the program at the Alochana University Hall, the minister handed over appointment letters to 74 doctors selected to work in non-communicable disease (NCD) clinics set up in community health centers and local hospitals.
He expressed concern over the increasing incidence of lifestyle-related diseases and emphasized the need for greater public awareness of preventive health measures.
As part of the ongoing NCD survey, oral, breast and cervical cancer screening is being conducted across the state. Suspected cases detected at the Primary Health Center (PHC) level are referred to higher level hospitals for further diagnosis and treatment. The newly appointed doctors are expected to play a key role in handling these cases and strengthening early detection efforts. Officials said up to 60 percent of cancer cases are preventable with early screening and early treatment.
City drug inspector suspended
Meanwhile, in a separate project in Amaravati, the minister ordered the suspension of Kakinada city drug inspector Shaik Parveen Sultana on corruption charges. Pharmacy owners allegedly claimed she demanded illegal payments while threatening inspections and legal action. The minister ordered officials to conduct an inquiry and reiterated that corruption would not be tolerated.
Published – 06 March 2026 20:59 IST
