Overview

• More than 2,800 PHC doctors have halted outpatient care since October 1 and largely stopped emergency services from October 2, extending the shutdown through Saturday.
• Talks with the Health Department were inconclusive, and the association is seeking a written commitment on the in‑service PG quota, time‑bound promotions with pay, and tribal and Sanchara Chikitsa allowances.
• A government order issued in August fixed the clinical in‑service quota at 15%, and the minister said the doctors’ demands will be placed before the chief minister for a decision soon.
• Citing a committee report, the minister said only 103 posts are available under the quota for 2025–26, appealed to doctors to return to duty, and announced a special committee on promotions and allowances.
• Protests gathered momentum with a Chalo Vijayawada rally on Saturday, a hunger strike announced for Sunday, and reports that secondary‑level doctors plan to join, as rural and tribal patients face reduced access to care.