Dehradun, April 28, 2025
In a significant move to strengthen the healthcare system ahead of the annual Char Dham Yatra, the Uttarakhand government has appointed 45 specialist doctors across various districts of the state. The initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, aims to ensure quick and quality medical services not only for the influx of pilgrims but also for local residents.
According to the official order (No. 293157/2025) issued by the Department of Medical Health and Medical Education, the newly appointed specialists include doctors from departments like General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Anaesthesiology, Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, ENT, Forensic Medicine, and General Medicine. These doctors will be stationed in district hospitals, sub-district hospitals, and community health centres based on their specialization and the needs of the area.
A Step Forward in Strengthening Health Infrastructure
Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar stated that the department has been consistently working under the guidance of the Chief Minister and Health Minister to enhance healthcare services, particularly in remote and hilly areas. “The doctors appointed were earlier pursuing their postgraduate studies and have now been posted as specialists across various districts,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of this step, especially with lakhs of devotees expected to arrive for the Char Dham Yatra in the coming weeks. The deployment of specialist doctors is expected to improve emergency response and routine treatment facilities, thus ensuring better service delivery during the high-traffic pilgrimage period.
Major Relief for State Hospitals
The appointment of these specialists addresses a longstanding gap in the state’s healthcare system, particularly in mountainous districts where patients often had to travel to bigger cities for specialized care. With these new appointments, services in critical departments like surgery, anaesthesia, paediatrics, gynaecology, and ophthalmology will now be readily available at the district level.
“This move will significantly enhance the overall healthcare system and marks a transformative step towards accessible and quality medical care for all,” said Dr. Kumar.
Districts Benefiting from the Appointments
The 45 doctors have been posted strategically in districts most affected by the Char Dham Yatra or those requiring urgent healthcare strengthening. These districts include Pauri Garhwal, Rudraprayag, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal, Almora, Champawat, Bageshwar, and Haridwar.
Breakdown of Specialist Appointments:
- Anaesthesiology – 12 doctors
- General Surgery – 5 doctors
- Pediatrics – 4 doctors
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology – 4 doctors
- ENT – 5 doctors
- Ophthalmology – 2 doctors
- Forensic Medicine – 1 doctor
- General Medicine & Others – 10 doctors
Special Preparations for Pilgrims’ Safety
Given the health risks associated with high-altitude travel, the government has also taken steps to prepare for medical emergencies such as cardiac issues and trauma cases. Dr. Kumar noted that several doctors have been specifically assigned to sensitive areas where immediate specialist support may be required.
Instructions for Immediate Joining
The health department has directed all newly appointed doctors to promptly report to their respective postings. Non-compliance or delay in joining duties will attract disciplinary action as per government norms.
This proactive approach from the Dhami government showcases a firm commitment to public health and readiness for the upcoming pilgrimage season, ensuring that both residents and visiting devotees receive the medical attention they need when it matters most.
