Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 18: The Bombay High Court on Thursday directed the Maharashtra government to appoint specialised doctors, including gynaecologists and paediatricians, at primary health centres, ensuring daily availability of essential care for expectant mothers and newborns across the state. The order followed a long pending public interest litigation and a subsequent contempt petition highlighting delays in implementation.

The court also reviewed progress in improving healthcare access in the tribal Melghat region, noting a significant drop in infant mortality rates from 48.9 in 2005–06 to 15.36 in 2024–25. Officials reported improvements in power, water and road infrastructure at healthcare facilities.

To strengthen service delivery, the state plans to fill key vacancies by January 31, 2026, expediting hiring of specialists and introducing a mandatory tribal service tenure for postgraduate doctors. A proposed salary increase for MBBS doctors — from Rs 80,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh per month — was also discussed during the hearing.

The High Court sought a detailed report from senior officials, expressing concern over delays and urging active participation of central health authorities at the next hearing scheduled for January 19, 2026.