Mon Feb 03 15:21:44 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Govt. Replaces AYUSH Doctors with MBBS Doctors in Child Health Program

**Mangaluru, February 3, 2025** – The Karnataka government’s decision to replace AYUSH doctors with MBBS doctors in the Rashtriya Bala Swastya Karyakram (RBSK) child health program has sparked protests. Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader defended the move, stating that AYUSH doctors were filling positions meant for MBBS graduates due to a shortage 12 years ago. With MBBS doctors now available, he argued, the designated posts should be filled by qualified MBBS personnel.

Mr. Khader, who served as Health and Family Welfare Minister during the RBSK’s implementation, explained that the temporary use of AYUSH doctors was a measure to address the lack of MBBS doctors at the time. He added that public preference leans towards MBBS doctors for health check-ups.

The decision has led to demonstrations by affected AYUSH doctors following a directive from the Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, ordering their removal within a month. In Dakshina Kannada, 32 AYUSH doctors are currently working in 16 RBSK teams, while Udupi district has 12 AYUSH doctors in six teams. District health officials await further instructions from the Health Commissioner regarding the implementation of the replacement.

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