AYUSH house surgeons and post-graduate doctors across Telangana have commenced an indefinite strike, demanding stipend parity with their allopathic counterparts. The protest highlights a massive wage gap that has persisted for over a decade.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 2,500 AYUSH doctors in Telangana are on strike.
- The primary demand is equal stipend parity with allopathic medical professionals.
- Current disparity: AYUSH surgeons receive ₹13,000 vs ₹28,000 for allopathic surgeons.
- The strike follows a failed 15-day notice period given to the authorities.
House surgeons and post-graduate doctors specializing in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) across Telangana have initiated an indefinite strike. The medical professionals are protesting against a decade-long stagnation in stipends and a massive pay gap compared to allopathic doctors.
The agitation began on Tuesday, following a 15-day strike notice issued by the Telangana AYUSH House Surgeons and Post Graduates Joint Action Committee (JAC). According to B. Rajesh Kalyan, president of the JAC, the strike involves nearly 2,500 doctors from five government medical colleges across the state.
The Economic Divide
The core grievance lies in the stark difference in remuneration. While allopathic house surgeons in the state earn approximately ₹28,000 per month, AYUSH house surgeons receive a mere ₹13,000. The gap widens significantly at the post-graduate level, where AYUSH students receive ₹30,000 compared to the ₹70,000 paid to allopathic post-graduates.
| Category | AYUSH Stipend (₹) | Allopathic Stipend (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| House Surgeon | ~13,000 | ~28,000 |
| Post-Graduate (PG) | ~30,000 | ~70,000 |
BozokMedia analysis shows that this disparity is not just a local issue but a systemic failure to value traditional medicine practitioners. Interestingly, neighboring Andhra Pradesh offers a much fairer model, where AYUSH stipends are broadly on par with allopathic ones, with house surgeons earning around ₹26,000.
"The strike would continue until the government addresses the stipend disparity and brings the remuneration of AYUSH doctors on par with their allopathic counterparts."
Historical Context
The JAC has repeatedly submitted representations to the state authorities over the years, seeking a revision of the stipend structure. However, these pleas have largely fallen on deaf ears, leading to the current state of unrest among the medical fraternity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are the AYUSH doctors striking?
They are demanding that their stipends be increased to match those of allopathic doctors.
2. How many doctors are participating in the strike?
About 2,500 doctors from five government colleges are involved.
