Karnataka Faces Shortage Of 900 MBBS Doctors, Minister Announces Contract Hiring

On Sunday, Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister UT Khader announced in Mangaluru that the state is currently facing a critical shortage of 900 MBBS doctors. To address this deficit, the minister revealed a new, simplified recruitment process designed to quickly hire medical graduates on a contract basis.

The announcement was made during Khader's first official visit to Dakshina Kannada district after assuming office as the state's health minister. The shortage of 900 doctors poses a significant challenge to the state's public healthcare system, prompting the government to streamline its hiring procedures.

Under the newly simplified system, MBBS graduates who are willing to serve on a contract basis can directly approach their respective District Health Officer (DHO). Once an application is received, the appointment proposal will be forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner (DC). According to the minister, official appointment orders will then be issued within a single week.

Khader issued a stern warning to local health administrators regarding the implementation of this recruitment drive. He stated that if any DHO fails to act on the applications of willing doctors, strict action, including suspension, will be taken against them. Doctors hired under this contract system will receive a monthly salary of Rs 60,000.

During his address, the minister also defended partnerships between government hospitals and private medical colleges. He stated that such collaborations would only strengthen healthcare services across the state. Khader emphasized that the primary goal of the health department is to ensure that citizens receive free and quality treatment, and that any shortages in facilities or manpower will be resolved.

Improving the overall functioning of government hospitals remains a key priority, the minister added. Recalling a surprise night visit he paid to a government hospital after taking charge, Khader urged senior health officials to follow suit. He noted that late-night visits provide a realistic picture of hospital operations and asserted that senior officials must conduct regular inspections to ensure public healthcare facilities serve citizens effectively.