The opposition Trinamool Congress has flayed the MDA government for sending nurses from the State abroad for employment while government hospitals in the State are being manned by contractual nurses.
“While it’s commendable that nurses from Meghalaya are finding opportunities abroad, the MDA government doesn’t seem concerned about our local healthcare system.
Despite a significant shortage of nurses, many positions remain unfilled. The government is clearly missing the boat by prioritising overseas jobs over filling vacancies at home. Reliance on contractual staffing undermines job security and the quality of patient care,” State Trinamool Congress leader Richard M. Marak said today.
Marak also said that Chief Minister Conrad Sangma’s administration seemed more focused on sending nurses abroad rather than addressing the urgent need for qualified professionals in Meghalaya.
“There are hundreds of nurses working outside the State who are eager to return home, yet our State continues to leave hundreds of positions vacant. Shame on the MDA government for this negligence,” Marak added.
He also asked the State government to create a comprehensive strategy to train nurses while ensuring they have viable career options locally. “Investing in our healthcare infrastructure should take precedence over putting out fires with temporary solutions,” he added.
“It’s crucial for the government to be held accountable for its inaction. We need policies that empower local nurses, addressing salary disparities, job security, and professional growth. While we celebrate the success of nurses abroad, we must not overlook the urgent need for a strong nursing workforce right here. Chief Minister Sangma, when will you prioritise our local healthcare needs? The MDA government must take decisive action to ensure our healthcare system isn’t left wanting,” Marak said.
It may be noted that several nurses from Meghalaya have been sent outside India for employment. Four firms have been engaged as sending organisations.
An MoU was signed with these firms on December 7, 2023, to facilitate language training and job placements in countries such as Japan, the UK, Singapore, and the UAE.
As part of the ‘Skills Meghalaya’ scheme, the Government of Meghalaya is sponsoring Rs 50,000 for each candidate through the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS). This support aims to cover 300 nurses in the coming years.
