Rise in out-of-state applicants, Punjab doctors seek domicile-based reservation for PCMS posts
Growing concern is emerging among Punjab’s doctors over the state’s ongoing recruitment process for Medical Officer (PCMS) posts. A sharp rise in applications and selections from out-of-state candidates, particularly from Rajasthan, has been witnessed.
Local doctors fear this trend is severely undermining employment prospects for Punjab’s own medical graduates and could affect the long-term stability of rural healthcare services in the state.
MBBS graduates from different medical institutes in the state have approached Chief Minister and Health Minister, demanding the government to revise its eligibility criteria for PCMS recruitment, demanding preferential treatment or reservation for candidates domiciled in Punjab.
Doctors alleged that the state has seen a surge in applications from MBBS graduates in Rajasthan — where the number of MBBS pass-outs exceeds 7,000 annually — many of whom are unable to secure employment within their own state due to a lack of posts. This medical workforce is now eyeing Punjab’s ongoing recruitment drives, often edging out local aspirants.
“This trend is displacing Punjab’s youth from their rightful opportunities,” said Dr Diljeet Singh Dhillon, a medical officer. “Despite being trained in the state and being familiar with local healthcare needs and infrastructure, our doctors are losing out to outsiders who may not have long-term commitments to serve here,” the doctors alleged.
They are demanding reforms in the Punjabi language proficiency exam, which is mandatory for PCMS recruitment. They advocate for a standardised model on the lines of international tests like IELTS, OET, TOEFL, and PTE, to ensure that medical professionals are evaluated on practical communication skills critical to patient care.
Dr Akhil Sareen, state president of the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA), confirmed that the matter has been brought to the notice of CM Bhagwant Mann and Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh.
“We have a scheduled meeting with the Health Minister on Wednesday. We will be strongly presenting the case for domicile preference and fair recruitment practices in favour of Punjab-trained doctors,” he said.
Punjab