PGIMER Technical Staff Facing Hurdles
In a recent Institute Body meeting at PGIMER on May 16, 2025, the decision was made to restructure the cadre of technical staff. However, despite this approval, the institution still faces significant challenges. The pending funds amount to a staggering ₹41 crore, dating back to 1992.
Challenges and Promotional Benefits
With the proposed 5-tier system, PGIMER will need to allocate these long-overdue funds for the promotion of technical staff. In July, a committee was formed to review the restructuring and determine the number of employees eligible for promotional benefits. Unfortunately, the technical staff has yet to see any positive outcomes from these efforts.
Technical staff at PGIMER are responsible for various medical tests, including complete blood counts, CT scans, MRIs, ECGs, and histopathological testing. There are 527 sanctioned positions for lab technicians, with specific roles in X-RAY and radiotherapy. Previously, technical assistants retired at level 3 without further promotion. The new 5-tier system aims to promote these individuals to higher positions like lab supervisor and senior technical officer.
Financial Implications and Implementation Challenges
The restructuring of technical staff is estimated to cost around ₹41.3 crores from 1992 to 2019. This amount is divided among laboratory technicians, X-RAY technicians, and those in radiotherapy. Many retirees from the 90s and 2000s are expected to benefit from these changes.
Dr. RK Garg, a former union president, highlighted the delay in implementing the 5-tier cadre system at PGIMER compared to other prestigious institutions. Despite a court ruling in 2013 in favor of the restructuring, PGIMER has been slow to act.
Employee Testimonials and Ongoing Efforts
One senior technician expressed frustration over the lack of career growth and mental exhaustion caused by decades of stagnation. The union has been advocating for cadre restructuring since 1994, and recent efforts have led to the formation of a committee to address these issues.
Pankaj Rai, deputy director at PGIMER, reassured that steps are being taken to implement the new cadre structure promptly to benefit the concerned staff members.
For more information and updates, stay connected with us.
