Will fulfil 50% of CHOs’ demands, says CM

Mysuru: Chief minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday responded positively to the demands of community health officers (CHOs) at a state-level conference organised by Akhila Karnataka State Community Health NHM contractual employees union, in Bengaluru.
The chief minister promised to fulfil 50% of their demands, including inter-district transfers and a 5% salary hike. He promised to discuss the rest of their demands, including regularisation of jobs for those who have been serving wit the health minister for over six years. "We will consider your demands sympathetically," said Siddaramaiah.
The CM also praised the CHOs' dedication, particularly in rural areas where they provide essential healthcare services. "If you continue to serve with sincerity, there is no doubt that we will support you," he added, and stressed the importance of govt hospital staff prioritising healthcare for the underprivileged.
Siddaramaiah noted that decline in food quality is impacting public health. He attributed the rising sickness to population growth, lifestyle changes, and excessive use of chemical fertilisers in farming. "In the past, people had access to nutritious food, which contributed to their long-term health. Today, due to increased production to meet demand, we have lost nutritional value in our food, leading to more diseases. It is the responsibility of CHOs to ensure the well-being of society," he stated.
The chief minister inaugurated a model Ayushman Health Centre and launched the association's souvenir and calendar.
Health and family welfare minister Dinesh Gundurao spoke of the Ayushman Arogya Mandira initiative, which treats 14 different diseases statewide, and announced a door-to-door health scheme in Kolar, offering free diagnosis, treatment, and medicine. "We received good feedback on this programme and we will take this programme across the state." he said.
District minister HC Mahadevappa, MLA T Harishgowda, MLC Thimmaiah, and president of State CHOs, Manvith Gaikwad were present.