The Rajasthan Medical College Teachers Association (RMCTA) has strongly opposed the state government's reported proposal to increase the retirement age of medical college doctors from 65 to 70 years. The association argues that such a move would hinder recruitment, delay promotions, and block career advancement opportunities for younger faculty members.
RMCTA's Objections
In a letter addressed to the medical education department, RMCTA stated that there is no significant shortage of senior faculty, particularly professors, in government medical colleges. The association highlighted that many qualified teachers are already working on a contract basis and are awaiting regular appointments. Extending the service period of senior doctors would slow down career progression and delay the hiring of new faculty, it argued.
The association urged the government to withdraw the proposal. Officials in the medical education department declined to comment on the matter.
Background of Retirement Age Rules
In 2018, the state government amended Rule 56 of the Rajasthan Service Rules, 1951, raising the retirement age of medical teachers in the Rajasthan Medical Services (Collegiate Branch) from 62 to 65 years. According to RMCTA, the current retirement age in the medical education department is 65, while administrative posts can only be held up to age 62. The association asserted that there is adequate availability of professors in government medical colleges, leaving no justification for any further increase.
Impact on Young Doctors
RMCTA cited the Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) scheme, explaining that under promotion rules, a senior post such as a senior professor is not converted into an assistant professor post until the incumbent retires. Consequently, retaining senior faculty for an extended period would reduce the number of assistant professor vacancies available for younger doctors. The association warned that increasing the retirement age would damage the rights of young doctors, reduce employment opportunities, and weaken interest in medical education.
Dr. Dheeraj Jeph, president of RMCTA, stated: "RMCTA Jaipur opposes such an increase in retirement age, a move the government is planning in the state. We strongly oppose any such proposal to increase the retirement age or grant service extension. There is currently no significant shortage of faculty members at the senior level, particularly at the professor level. On the contrary, many young and qualified faculty members are working on a contract basis and are awaiting regular appointments and opportunities for career advancement."
Demand for Simplified VRS
The association has also asked the government to simplify the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) process so that workforce planning can improve and new candidates can get timely opportunities. RMCTA believes that a streamlined VRS would help in better management of faculty strength and create openings for younger medical professionals.
