In a significant step to bolster healthcare delivery across Himachal Pradesh, the State Government has substantially increased the honorarium for technical staff working in the health sector. The move aims to address long-standing vacancies in key technical positions and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services for the public.
According to an official spokesperson, the honorarium for Operation Theatre (OT) Assistants has been raised by ₹7,180, taking it from ₹17,820 to ₹25,000 per month. Similarly, the honorarium for Radiographers and X-Ray Technicians has been nearly doubled—from ₹13,100 to ₹25,000 per month—an increase of ₹11,900.
The spokesperson highlighted the acute shortage of technical staff, stating that out of 382 sanctioned posts of OT Assistants, 226 remain vacant. Likewise, 129 out of 282 posts of Radiographers and X-Ray Technicians are unfilled. The previously low honorarium was cited as a major deterrent for professionals entering government service, contributing to staff shortages in public hospitals.
CM Sukhu took cognizance of the issue and directed the health department to take immediate steps to improve compensation for technical staff. Acting on his directive, the department formulated a proposal, which was later approved by the State Cabinet.
The decision is expected to help bridge the gap in manpower by attracting more qualified professionals into the government health sector. Technical staff play a critical role in diagnostics and form the backbone of the healthcare system, particularly in hospitals and medical colleges.
To further address the shortage, the government has also increased the number of training seats in paramedical courses. In Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, the seat capacity for B.Sc. Medical Laboratory Technique, B.Sc. Radiology & Imaging, and B.Sc. Anaesthesia & OT Technique has been raised from 10 or 18 seats to 50 seats per course. This expansion aims to ensure that the State’s youth receive adequate training opportunities within Himachal itself, paving the way for a stronger, self-reliant healthcare workforce in the years ahead.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
