Odisha Vet Doctors Strike Called Off After 31 Days Following Talks With Govt

Bhubaneswar: The veterinary doctors of Odisha who were on mass leave for more than 31 days have decided to call off the strike after a successful discussion with Chief Secretary Pradeep Kumar Jena on Saturday.

Informing about the decision, the President of Odisha Veterinary Service Association Dr Jadunath Parida said the Chief Secretary has assured them that the government will look into their demands and take a decision at the earliest possible.

Veterinary doctors from across the state had gathered at the PMG Square in the capital on Saturday. The Chief Secretary invited them for a discussion following which the strike was called off.

More than 1,300 doctors were on mass leave from January 18 demanding pay and career progression on par with allopathic doctors, parity with veterinarians under the Central government service, better avenues for promotion through cadre restructuring, non-practice allowance which is prevalent in many other states apart from better diagnostic services at district levels, round-the-clock service for farmers and an overhaul of the animal resources department.

The strike had halted animal care services in the state completely causing immense livestock and livelihood loss.