Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announces the filling of 1,568 vacant ANM and Staff Nurse positions under the National Health Mission (NHM) to strengthen healthcare services.

Punjab’s Finance Minister, Harpal Singh Cheema, has announced approval for the recruitment of 1,568 vacant positions of Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) and Staff Nurses under the National Health Mission (NHM) in a move aimed at enhancing the state’s healthcare services. This decision, endorsed by the Finance Department, is a significant step towards addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals in Punjab’s public health system.

The approval covers the filling of 729 vacant ANM positions out of the 2,000 sanctioned posts and 839 Staff Nurse positions out of 1,896 sanctioned positions. The Finance Minister stressed that these contract-based positions are crucial to maintaining efficient healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas of Punjab.

Financial Details and Remuneration

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema elaborated on the financial commitment required for this recruitment initiative. The total annual cost for filling these vacancies is estimated at Rs 48.88 crore. This includes Rs 18.98 crore for the ANM positions and Rs 29.90 crore for the Staff Nurse roles. Under the new pay structure, the monthly remuneration for ANMs has been fixed at Rs 21,700, while Staff Nurses will receive Rs 29,700 per month.

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Transparent and Merit-Based Recruitment Process

To ensure a fair and transparent recruitment process, the Punjab government has decided to conduct the selection process through a written examination, which will be organized by Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot. The Finance Minister further stated that the Personnel Department’s concurrence would be sought to finalize the appointments, ensuring compliance with all administrative procedures.

Strengthening Healthcare Services in Punjab

Minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasized that this recruitment initiative is a part of the Punjab government’s broader strategy to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure. By filling these crucial vacancies, the government aims to improve the quality of healthcare services provided to the people of Punjab. He noted that filling these positions would contribute significantly to the delivery of efficient and effective healthcare, especially in rural areas where the shortage of medical staff has often affected the quality of care.

Government’s Commitment to Public Health

FM Harpal Singh Cheema reiterated that the government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is unwavering in its commitment to improving healthcare and education in the state. With this approval, the Punjab government aims to bridge gaps in the healthcare system, ultimately benefiting the citizens of the state. By ensuring that essential positions are filled, the government is striving to provide accessible, reliable, and quality healthcare services across Punjab.