Vijayawada: Thousands of doctors working in Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across Andhra Pradesh continue their hunger strike, demanding a 20% postgraduate (PG) medical in-service quota for government doctors until 2030.
Although the government recently agreed to increase the quota from 15% to 20% for the current academic year, the doctors have refused to call off the strike, as there is no assurance of continuation for the next five years.
Background
- The in-service quota had been reduced to 15% in only seven branches, while it remained at 20% across all specialties in the academic year 2025–26.
- PHC doctors argue that a uniform 20% quota across all specialties is essential for fairness when pursuing PG courses.
- Over 2,800 PHC doctors have been on strike since September 29, with doctors from district hospitals, community health centres, and health workers’ unions expected to join.
Government Response
- The Health and Family Welfare Commissioner, G. Veerapandian, stated that the government has agreed to allocate the 20% quota for this year and is working on other demands, including time-bound promotions, tribal allowances, and service-related benefits.
- The government cited financial and logistical constraints in guaranteeing the continuation of the 20% quota until 2030, emphasizing that only 103 new posts are currently available, while 1,089 PG doctors will return to serve in hospitals between 2024 and 2027.
Doctors’ Demands
- 20% PG in-service quota until 2030
- Time-bound promotions
- Mobile medical service allowances
- Resolution of other service-related issues
The AP PHC Doctors’ Association has vowed to continue the strike until written assurance is provided that the 20% quota will remain in effect for the next five years, despite government appeals to resume duties.
This strike highlights the long-standing tensions between government policies and PHC doctors’ career progression, raising concerns over the impact on patient care across the state.
