Service Extended Till October 2026
Chandigarh: The Punjab Government has approved a one-year extension in service for Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Director Health Services. Originally scheduled to retire on October 31, 2025, upon attaining the age of superannuation at 58 years, she will now continue in office until October 31, 2026.
Official Notification Issued
The state’s Department of Health and Family Welfare issued an official notification confirming the decision. The extension, officials said, aims to maintain leadership stability and ensure smooth execution of ongoing public health and family welfare programs.
Public Interest Cited in Order
Kumar Rahul, IAS, Principal Secretary, Government of Punjab, Department of Health and Family Welfare, stated that the decision was taken in public interest.
“To ensure continuity, sustainability and successful implementation of major health programmes, infrastructure projects and departmental restructuring exercise underway in the State,” the order read, “Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Service No. 5650/5660, Director Health Services, is granted an extension of one year in her service.”
Salary and Benefits Conditions
According to the order, under Rule 3.26(b) of the Punjab Civil Services Rules, Dr. Kaur will continue to draw her existing salary during the extended service period. Pensionary benefits will only be applicable after the completion of the extension.
However, the order clarifies that during this period, she will not be eligible for promotion, DACP/MACP benefits, annual increments, or any future revision of pay scales.
Ensuring Continuity in Health Programmes
The government emphasized that this move is intended to ensure continuity in health sector reforms and sustainability of major programmes. Several key infrastructure projects and restructuring exercises are currently in progress within the state’s health department.
PCMSA Welcomes the Decision
The Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) congratulated Dr. Hitinder Kaur on the extension.
“Dr. Hitinder was earlier holding the charge of Additional Director, Health Services, Punjab. After a long gap, the department now has a regular Director of Health Services,” the association said in a statement. PCMSA also thanked Principal Secretary Kumar Rahul for his timely approval of the appointment.
Recruitment Drive Underway
The extension comes as the Punjab Government intensifies recruitment efforts to fill 1,000 doctor posts across the state. Officials say this move, coupled with leadership continuity, will help strengthen public health delivery systems.
