Odisha Cabinet Approves Restructuring of Multipurpose Health Worker (Male) Service Cadre

Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at bolstering healthcare services at the grassroots level, the Odisha Cabinet on Thursday approved the proposal for further amendment of the Odisha Multipurpose Health Worker (Male) Service (Method of Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2019. The restructuring is aligned with the Indian Public Health Standard (IPHS), 2022 norms, considering the increase in public health facilities, rising patient loads at government healthcare facilities, and the objective of providing enhanced healthcare services.

The Multipurpose Health Worker (Male) (MPHW(M)) cadre has been restructured to meet IPHS norms, resulting in the creation of additional posts and an increase in cadre strength. The new structure includes:

a. MPHW(M) Level-II with Cadre Strength-6688, Group C, District Cadre Post.
b. MPHW(M) Level-I with Cadre Strength-3267, Group B, District Cadre Post.
c. MPHW(M) Level-II with Cadre Strength-1990, Group B, State Cadre Post.
d. MPHS(M) Level-I with Cadre Strength-395, Group B, State Cadre Post.
e. Assistant Director with Cadre Strength-01, Group A, State Cadre Post.

As a result, the existing cadre strength has increased from 6,538 to 12,341. The Odisha Multipurpose Health Worker (Male) Service (Method of Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Amendment Rules, 2024 outlines provisions and procedures for promotions within the restructured cadre hierarchy, from district level to the State Headquarters.

The Amendment Rules, 2024, brings significant changes, including the deletion of Clause (g) under Rule 9 of the MPHW(M) cadre rules, 2019, which required candidates to register in any employment exchange of the district. In its place, a provision allowing transgender individuals to apply for recruitment to MPHW (M) Level-II posts has been inserted.

Rule-9(f) has been amended to require candidates to have registered their name in the Odisha Pharmacy Council and possess a valid Registration Certificate as of the date of application submission.

The restructuring also reduces the minimum residency period for promotions in the cadre hierarchy, facilitating a rational and periodic career advancement for MPHW (M)s.

The Amendment Rules,2024, introduces a provision for the preparation of gradation lists at the district level for promotions to the post of MPHW(M) Level-I by the Chief District Medical and Public Health Officer (CDM&PHO). The Director, Public Health, Odisha, will prepare combined gradation lists of MPHW(M) Level-I & above corresponding feeder grade posts for consideration of promotions.

The estimated annual financial implication to implement the Rule is approximately Rs. 214.65 crore.

This strategic restructuring reflects the state’s commitment to providing efficient and improved healthcare services, ensuring a competent and motivated healthcare workforce at the grassroots level.