Karnataka to offer permanent jobs to contract doctors after five years of service
The Karnataka government is planning to offer permanent positions to doctors working on a contractual basis in government health institutions after they complete five years of satisfactory service. Announcing the proposal in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Health Minister UT Khader stated that the initiative aims to address a critical shortage of medical personnel across the state.
The state's public healthcare system is currently facing a severe staff deficit, with 1,290 MBBS doctor posts and more than 924 specialist vacancies remaining unfilled. Minister Khader explained that young doctors are often reluctant to take up contract jobs due to concerns over job security. The new measure is designed to provide them with stability and serve as an incentive to join public health facilities.
Under the new action plan, 200 posts will be filled through direct recruitment, while the remaining 1,000 vacancies will be filled on a contractual basis.
To streamline the hiring process, the government will conduct walk-in style recruitment. Doctors who have completed their MBBS or postgraduate studies can apply directly through the District Health Officer (DHO). Once approved following consultations with the deputy commissioner, candidates will receive their appointment orders within a week.
Contractual MBBS graduates will be paid a monthly salary of Rs 60,000, while specialists will receive Rs 1.1 lakh. Doctors who complete five years of service will also be given the opportunity to pursue postgraduate degrees, provided they select specialisations required by the health department.
To encourage medical professionals to work in remote areas, the government is offering an additional monthly incentive of Rs 15,000 for those who volunteer to serve in rural areas, border districts, tribal regions, and forest areas.
Additionally, the department plans to recruit retired doctors in the 60–70 age group on a contract basis, provided they are physically and mentally fit. The department will also establish four advisory committees—the State Vision Committee, Mental Health Committee, Cochlear Implant Committee, and Oral Health Committee—to act as bridges between citizens and the department.
