CM Sukhu announces increase in retirement age to address faculty shortage

Shimla: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday announced that the retirement age for professors in government medical colleges will be increased to 65 years for the next three years, in a bid to address the ongoing shortage of faculty across Himachal Pradesh.

The decision is aimed at strengthening medical education, particularly in newer institutions and in addressing the shortage of super-specialists at Tanda Medical College. The Chief Minister also clarified that the move would not impact promotional opportunities for other faculty members.

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To further strengthen the system, the government will designate assistant and associate professors wherever required. In addition, postgraduate (PG) seats are being significantly increased across medical colleges, including 57 in Tanda, 29 in Mandi, 32 in Nahan, 33 in Chamba, 67 in Hamirpur, and 96 in Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla. This expansion is expected to improve institutional efficiency, enhance training capacity, and ultimately lead to better patient care.

While chairing a review meeting of the medical education department, Sukhu directed officials to ensure efficient healthcare services across all government medical colleges. He emphasised that strengthening healthcare infrastructure, especially diagnostic services, remains a top priority for the government.

The CM also announced that all vacant nursing posts would be filled by November this year, along with the recruitment of adequate technical staff. The govt has earmarked Rs 192 crore for Phase II of Chamba Medical College and Rs 500 crore for Nahan Medical College, he added. Also, Rs 3,000 crore will be invested in modern medical equipment, alongside efforts to promote health tourism in the state, said Sukhu, reports TOI.

Highlighting the government’s priorities, the Chief Minister emphasised that health and education remain top priorities, assuring that there is no shortage of funds for these sectors.

As per Tribune India, the meeting was attended by Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil, Secretary Health M Sudha Devi, and Director Health Education Dr Rakesh Sharma. Principals of all medical colleges joined the meeting virtually.

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