SAMDCOT Members Meet CM, Raise Faculty Issues at IGMC, Other Medical Colleges
Shimla – In a crucial meeting today, executive members of the Shimla Association of Medical and Dental College Teachers (SAMDCOT) met with the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in presence of Health Minister Dr Dhani Ram Shandil and health officials to address several pressing concerns impacting faculty members at IGMC Shimla and other medical colleges across the state.
One of the primary issues discussed was the disparity in Non-Practice Allowance (NPA) for Assistant Professors appointed through the Public Service Commission.
Dr. Manish Gupta, representing SAMDCOT, highlighted that many of these professors, previously Medical Officers, no longer receive the NPA they were entitled to.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the problem and committed to restoring NPA parity, ensuring that all deserving faculty members receive fair compensation.
Another significant development was the Chief Minister’s assurance to revise the current study leave policy. Currently, doctors pursuing advanced degrees like MD, MS, DM, or MCh receive only 40% of their pay during study leave.
The CM promised to scrap this condition, a move that will offer much-needed financial relief to faculty members looking to enhance their qualifications.
Additionally, the Chief Minister agreed to standardize vacation entitlements for faculty members across the state's medical colleges.
With a commitment to providing 45 days of vacation annually, the change aims to bring IGMC and other institutions in line with national standards, promoting a healthier work-life balance for medical faculty.
These assurances from the Chief Minister are seen as steps toward improving faculty conditions, which are expected to positively impact the state's healthcare system in the long run.