Ranchi, September 20, 2026: The Jharkhand Health Services Association (JHASA) held its General Body Meeting at the IMA Bhawan in Morabadi, Ranchi, on Sunday. More than 100 doctors from different districts of Jharkhand participated in the meeting, where several issues concerning doctors were discussed in detail.
One of the key demands raised by JHASA was the effective and rational implementation of the Dynamic ACP system for doctors in Jharkhand, in line with arrangements followed by the Central Government and Bihar.
For doctors in the general sub-cadre, the association has demanded that the existing service period of 6+6+6+7 years for four Dynamic ACPs be revised to 4+5+4+7 years.
For dental-cadre doctors, JHASA has demanded that the existing provision of three Dynamic ACPs be increased to four, with a service period of 4+5+4+7 years.
For specialist doctors, the association has demanded clear rules for Dynamic ACP, fixation of Basic Pay at the level of ₹6,600, and a service period of 2+4+7 years for Dynamic ACP.
According to JHASA, the association has been raising issues related to Dynamic ACP with the department for nearly 10 years. However, the lack of an expected resolution has resulted in dissatisfaction among doctors.
The General Body decided that a formal representation would be submitted to the Additional Chief Secretary, Health Department, seeking a positive decision on the demands by October 5, 2026.
The association said that if the demands are not addressed within the stipulated time, it would initiate a phased agitation and may ultimately be compelled to begin an indefinite work boycott from October 22, 2026.
JHASA also raised the issue of vacant medical posts in the state. According to figures available on the department's website, around 1,422 sanctioned regular Medical Officer posts are still vacant in Jharkhand. The association demanded that these vacancies be filled through the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) at regular intervals to ensure permanent recruitment of doctors and strengthen the state's healthcare system.
The proposed issue of reducing the retirement age of doctors from 67 to 65 years was also discussed during the meeting. JHASA demanded that if any such new decision is implemented, it should apply only to future appointments and should not affect doctors who are already in service under the existing rules.
The association also demanded that the department hold a formal and meaningful meeting with JHASA representatives before taking any final decision on the matter.
JHASA clarified that its objective is not confrontation or conflict with the department. The association said it wants the genuine problems and demands of doctors to be resolved through constructive dialogue between the department and the organisation.
JHASA stated that any decision taken after practical discussions, keeping the interests of doctors and the state's healthcare system in mind, would be considered practical, acceptable and welcome.
JHASA said its objective is not confrontation, but dialogue, resolution and strengthening the healthcare system of Jharkhand.
