Raises Doctors’ Retirement Age to 65, Major Move by Mann Government

Punjab News: The Punjab government has increased the retirement age of dental faculty from 62 to 65 years. This decision follows recommendations from the state’s Medical Education and Research Department. The move is part of broader reforms to improve healthcare quality. Officials believe retaining senior professionals will enhance patient care and teaching standards.

The policy aligns with existing rules already applied to medical faculty in Amritsar and Patiala. It ensures that skilled doctors continue contributing to colleges and hospitals for three extra years. The government expects this will help address faculty shortages across the state.

Focus on Dental Education Strengthening

The new rule applies to dental faculty covered under the Punjab Dental Education (Group-A) Service Rules, 2016. These faculty members teach at major government dental colleges across the state. Officials say the step will directly improve dental education and treatment facilities for citizens. Students will benefit from experienced teachers staying longer in the system.

The government hopes this will raise overall training quality and improve services at teaching hospitals. Health experts welcomed the move, calling it timely amid rising healthcare demands.

Parity with Medical Faculty Achieved

Earlier, only medical teaching faculty enjoyed the raised retirement age of 65. Dental faculty had continued to retire at 62, creating imbalance and discontent in the profession. By extending the same benefit, the government aims to ensure parity across medical education. This equal treatment is expected to boost morale among dental teachers and doctors.

It also signals the government’s recognition of dentistry’s role in public health. Officials stated that parity will help retain talent in both sectors for longer durations. This policy aims at a balanced approach to healthcare education.

Health Services Expected to Benefit

The decision comes amid rising pressure on Punjab’s health services due to increasing patient load. Many rural and urban hospitals face a shortage of senior specialists. Allowing doctors to serve longer will help bridge this gap temporarily. The move also reduces the need for immediate large-scale recruitment in teaching positions.

Government hospitals will have better continuity of experienced staff in patient care and research. Citizens are expected to benefit directly from higher availability of senior doctors in critical departments.

Education Sector to Gain Experience

Extending retirement age ensures that dental students continue learning from seasoned professors. It allows academic institutions to maintain stability in faculty and curriculum planning. Experts say retaining experienced teachers is crucial for research and mentorship. This continuity strengthens the reputation of Punjab’s medical colleges nationally.

The policy is seen as an investment in improving future batches of dentists and medical professionals. It also reduces disruption caused by frequent faculty turnover every few years. Colleges expect smoother functioning as senior professors remain active longer.

Government’s Long-Term Strategy Clear

This decision reflects the Mann government’s broader plan to enhance healthcare and education infrastructure. Officials have hinted at more reforms aimed at recruitment and training in the coming months. The government is also focusing on anti-drug campaigns and rural health outreach.

Raising the retirement age is seen as an immediate step while long-term projects are finalized. It shows priority given to retaining skilled manpower rather than relying solely on new hires. Policy analysts believe this could become a model for other states to follow.

Public and Expert Reactions Positive

Initial reactions from faculty and student groups have been largely positive. Dental associations called it a step toward strengthening Punjab’s healthcare ecosystem. Students welcomed the opportunity to learn from experienced mentors for longer periods. Public health activists said retaining talent benefits patient care across government hospitals.

However, some critics argued new recruitment drives must also continue to avoid future shortages. Overall, the announcement is seen as a progressive and people-centric policy shift by the Mann government. Citizens now await formal notifications for swift implementation.