Bhubaneswar: In a significant move aimed at strengthening public health services and providing enhanced eye care to its citizens, the Odisha Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today approved the proposal for the creation of the Odisha Ophthalmic Service (Methods of Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2025.
The newly approved rules are set to revolutionize the ophthalmic healthcare sector in the state. Currently, 197 Ophthalmic Assistants are serving across various healthcare facilities. The Cabinet’s decision includes the creation of an additional 141 posts at the base level and 200 promotional posts. This expansion will lead to a robust Odisha Ophthalmic Service Cadre comprising a total of 338 base-level posts and 538 posts across all levels.
The creation of the Odisha Ophthalmic Service Cadre is a direct response to the public’s need for better health care services and a strategic step towards meeting the Indian Public Health Standard (IPHS). This structured cadre is expected to significantly improve the availability and quality of eye care services throughout the state.
A key benefit of the new rules is the enhanced job security and clearer career advancement pathways they will provide for eligible Ophthalmic Assistants. Furthermore, the establishment of this dedicated cadre will facilitate the much-needed recruitment of new Ophthalmic Officers, ensuring a steady influx of qualified professionals into the system.
This approval underscores the state government’s commitment to prioritizing public health and ensuring a robust healthcare infrastructure for its citizens.