Punjab Cabinet meeting: Retirement age for medical professors raised to 65; quota for SC lawyers in govt appointments
PTC Web Desk: The Punjab Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Friday approved six major decisions during its meeting held on Friday. These decisions span across crucial sectors such as medical education, rural development, legal appointments, and environmental protection.
Addressing the media, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the Cabinet had approved the extension of the retirement age for professors working in state-run medical colleges from 62 to 65 years. The decision is expected to benefit around 48 senior professors who were due for retirement over the next three years. The move is aimed at ensuring continuity and leveraging their expertise for the benefit of students.
Similarly, the retirement age of medical officers (specialists) has been increased from 58 to 65 years. However, those crossing the age of 58 will be retained on a contractual basis, with remuneration based on their last drawn salary. This is expected to address the shortage of medical specialists across the state and enhance healthcare service delivery.
The Punjab Cabinet has given the nod for the reorganisation of blocks under the Department of Rural Development and Panchayats. The move aims to rationalise the number, structure, and functioning of these blocks to improve administrative efficiency and service outreach in rural areas.
For the first time, the state’s One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme will be applicable to the Urban Improvement Trusts. Until now, these trusts were excluded from the benefits of the scheme. Under the new provision, penal interest will be waived, and a 50% concession will be granted on non-construction charges and fines. Thousands of beneficiaries are likely to gain financial relief as a result.
The Punjab Cabinet has also officially approved the demarcation of a 100-metre Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around forest areas. This follows the state’s earlier submission of an affidavit to the Supreme Court, confirming the demarcation.
The Cabinet has approved a reservation and relaxation policy for Scheduled Caste (SC) lawyers in government legal appointments. This policy will apply specifically to the Office of the Advocate General (AG), where SC lawyers will now benefit from special provisions and preferential consideration in the appointment of law officers. The decision is being hailed as a progressive step towards ensuring representation and inclusivity in the state’s legal system.
- PTC NEWS
