The Tamil Nadu government made a significant move on Tuesday by issuing permanent appointment orders to 831 contract nurses. These nurses were recruited through the Medical Services Recruitment Board, commonly known as MRB. This action completes the regularization process for 1,000 nurses that was announced following protests by contract nurses in December 2025.
Regularization Process Completed
Earlier, the government had regularized 169 nurses on December 26. With the latest orders for 831 nurses, the total now reaches the promised figure of 1,000. The minister stated that counselling sessions to decide postings for these newly regularized nurses will be held by the end of next week.
Salary Increases and Government Response
The minister highlighted several improvements since the DMK government assumed office. He noted that the monthly salary of contract nurses has increased from Rs 14,000 to Rs 18,000. After protests demanding permanent jobs, the chief minister accepted their demands, leading to this regularization.
Additionally, steps are being taken to reappoint 724 contract nurses who served as frontline workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. The government will also consider providing paid maternity leave for contract nurses in line with the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961.
Support for Health Workers
In a related development, at least 1,325 reproductive and child health workers have been serving in primary health centres for nearly two decades. They were previously paid Rs 1,500 per month. Their salary will now be increased to Rs 5,000 per month, effective from January 19 this year.
Broader Impact on Government Appointments
Since the present government took charge, permanent appointment orders have been issued to 5,825 personnel. This figure stands in stark contrast to the 1,600 appointments made during the previous regime, indicating a significant push towards regularizing government positions.
