Salary hike comes as shot in arm for GMC resident doctors, tutors, lecturers

Panaji: Health minister Vishwajit Rane on Friday announced that the remuneration of doctors and the Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) serving on contract at the Goa Medical College (GMC) and Hospital was enhanced with effect from Jan 1.

He said a decision was also taken to provide a 5% annual increment going forward.The monthly stipend of Rs 60,000 for first year, Rs 62,500 for second year and Rs 65,000 for third year postgraduate resident doctors has been increased to Rs 80,000, Rs 85,000 and Rs 90,000 respectively.The monthly remuneration of tutors has been increased from Rs 85,000 to Rs 95,000, and that of lecturers from Rs 95,000 to Rs 1.2 lakh.The health minister said this step reflects govt’s commitment to recognising the tireless service, dedication and sacrifice of doctors who form the backbone of Goa’s healthcare system and remain at the forefront of patient care every single day.GARD met the chief minister in Oct seeking revision and enhancement of the stipend for resident doctors, taking into consideration inflation and stating that it had not been revised since 2015.GARD president Dr Lakshya Kumar Jha said that the hike represents a long-standing demand of the resident doctor community. “It marks one of the most significant stipend revisions ever implemented in our institute,” he further said.

“The collective approach adopted by all stakeholders ensured that this matter was resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding. This milestone reflects the effectiveness of constructive communication, perseverance and teamwork, and it stands as a testament to what can be achieved through responsible and solution-oriented representation.”He said the GARD remains committed to working collaboratively with govt and administration in the best interests of resident doctors and Goa’s healthcare system.