Andhra Pradesh: High-level panel interviews junior doctors on demands

A high-level committee of the Andhra Pradesh health department on Thursday held the first round of talks with representatives of the Junior Doctors Association (JUDA) as directed by the Andhra Pradesh High Court.

A statement issued by the ministry said the committee discussed the six demands raised by JUDA and assured the association that there was no need to worry about five of them.

She said there would be another round of discussions on the remaining demand for a stipend increase.

The meeting was chaired by Health and Medical Department Secretary G. Veerapandian and attended by Director of Medical Education A. Vishnuvardhan and University of Health Sciences Registrar Sudheer Dr. NTR. JUDA was represented by its president Eshwar, Bhargav and other members.

Retirement age of professors

On the demand to increase the retirement age of professors, the government said that no policy decision has been taken yet and the matter will be discussed with JUDA representatives if necessary.

On the recruitment of non-clinicians, Mr. Veerapandian said the government was following the guidelines of the National Medical Commission (NMC). The guidelines allow up to 30% of posts to be filled by candidates with Masters, PhD and other eligible qualifications, while only 11.05% of posts have been filled through this route so far.

Regarding the prescribed working hours and basic equipment for novice doctors, the secretary said the DME has already issued guidelines to the superintendents of all hospitals. He said the government would take action against superintendents who failed to implement the guidelines.

The committee said the issue of scholarships for senior citizens will be considered separately, clarifying that senior citizens do not come under JUDA’s jurisdiction.

In terms of stipends for interns, post-graduates and super-specialists, the government has currently proposed a 10% increase for interns and 3% increase for PGs and super-specialists.

Starting next year, the scholarships would increase by 3% per year. However, JUDA representatives sought a 13% increase. The secretary said that another round of discussions would be held to consider the request.

Published – 27 Aug 2026 23:56 IST