The North News
Chandigarh, September 24
Punjab has introduced a first-of-its-kind policy to recognise doctors for exceptional service, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann set to personally honour 60 medical professionals each year.
Announcing the move in Chandigarh, Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh said the initiative aims to boost morale and acknowledge the vital role doctors play in the state’s healthcare system. Awards will be given across four categories, ranging from state and district-level recognition to special honours for innovation, public health leadership and private sector service. Each recipient will receive a certificate of honour and permanent listing on the State Health Honour Board, which will be displayed in government hospitals. Dr Balbir Singh said the policy was designed to institutionalise transparency and merit-based recognition. “Doctors are the custodians of public health and have stood as pillars of strength for the people of Punjab during every crisis—from COVID-19 to floods,” he said.
Punjab currently employs around 6,000 doctors across Aam Aadmi Clinics, primary and community health centres, district hospitals, medical colleges and outreach programmes. Since 2022, the Mann government has recruited 934 doctors—nearly a quarter of the state’s current medical officer and specialist strength—with more expected to join in the coming months. The Health Minister added that frontline staff such as nurses and ASHA workers will also be honoured under a similar framework.
The government said the new policy underscores its commitment to celebrating the contribution of doctors and building a stronger, more responsive health system.
