Move aimed at strengthening AYUSH services
TNR News Network
Shimla: In a major relief for doctors under the AYUSH Department, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed that AYUSH doctors pursuing post-graduation will now receive 100 per cent of their salary, overturning an earlier notification that allowed only 40 per cent pay. The announcement was made during a review meeting of the AYUSH Department in Shimla.
Chief Minister Sukhu said the decision reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening AYUSH services in Himachal Pradesh and ensuring that doctors are adequately supported while pursuing higher education. He said that the state’s focus on wellness tourism makes the AYUSH sector a vital contributor to the state’s development strategy.
Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s natural and climatic advantages, the Chief Minister said the state offers immense potential for wellness and holistic tourism. He directed the department to identify AYUSH health institutions with higher Outpatient Department (OPD) turnout and strengthen them with additional manpower and upgraded facilities to improve public service delivery.
Plans underway for new AYUSH college, data integration
The Chief Minister revealed that the state government is actively considering the establishment of a new AYUSH college in Nahan, while reiterating its commitment to enhancing the Ayurvedic college at Paprola. He assured that all vacant posts in the institution will be filled promptly to improve academic and healthcare standards.
Sukhu also instructed the department to integrate patient data with HIM Parivar numbers, ensuring better tracking, coordination, and efficiency in healthcare delivery across the state’s AYUSH network.
Focus on herbal gardens, yoga for wellness
Emphasising the importance of holistic health, the Chief Minister directed the AYUSH Department to develop herbal gardens in high-altitude regions such as Spiti Valley, leveraging the area’s unique biodiversity for medicinal plant cultivation.
He also ordered that yoga classes be introduced in Balika Ashrams (Girls’ Homes) and Old Age Homes across Himachal Pradesh to promote physical and mental well-being among residents.
AYUSH Minister Yadvinder Goma, Secretary A Shainamol, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Director Rohit Jamwal and other senior officials attended the review meeting.
