Jharkhand News: JSHSA Santhal vice-president-elect pledges multiple reforms

SUBHASH MISHRA

Dhanbad, Jan 6: Dr. Mohan Paswan, the vice-president-elect of the state government doctors’ body from the Santhal Division, has announced a wide range of facilities and reforms for medical officers during his two-year tenure (2025-27).

Dr. Paswan, currently the medical officer in charge of the Pathergama CHC in Godda district, is among seven vice-presidents elected unopposed in the ongoing Jharkhand State Health Services Association (JSHSA) elections, scheduled for January 20.

Following the scrutiny of nominations on Sunday, 16 office bearers, including the president, seven vice presidents from various divisions, the treasurer, and seven joint secretaries, are set to be elected unopposed.

Speaking about his priorities, Dr. Paswan said, “My priority would be raising voice for making the civil surgeon chairman of ‘Zila Swasthya Samiti’ in place of the deputy commissioner and programme officer as secretary.”

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Notably, his name has been nominated for the prestigious 2023-24 Padma Shri Award.

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Key Reforms and Initiatives Promised

Dr. Paswan, who has served as JSHSA vice-president for the Santhal Division in 2016, 2018, and 2022, outlined a 15-point agenda. Among his promises, he emphasized removing the mandatory biometric attendance system and streamlining the Ayushman Bharat health scheme payment process.

“Implementation of the Medical Protection Act (MPA) and correction of anomalies in the Clinical Establishment Act (CEA) would also be dealt with on a priority basis,” he said.

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He further pledged to advocate for the inclusion of the JSHSA president or secretary in government committees handling medical officers’ transfer postings.

Dr. Psawan’s Awards and Recognition

Dr. Paswan’s contributions have earned significant recognition over the years. The then-Governor, Draupadi Murmu (now President of India), honoured him for his exemplary services in Sahibganj district.

Later, in 2022-23, he was awarded by the then health minister and principal secretary for his achievements.

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Protest Against Alleged Negligence Accusations

In September 2024, Dr. Paswan strongly opposed the district administration’s actions against a civil surgeon and a doctor in Sahibganj, citing alleged medical negligence.

He continues to advocate for protecting medical professionals from unwarranted accusations and ensuring fair treatment for healthcare workers.