Chhattisgarh’s Healthcare Sector in Disarray
A recent performance audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has unveiled a distressing state of affairs within Chhattisgarh’s healthcare sector. The report, which covers the period from 2016 to 2022, highlights alarming deficiencies including acute shortages of doctors and widespread irregularities in drug procurement.
The audit, tabled at the conclusion of the assembly session, sheds light on several critical issues. Among the most concerning findings is the significant shortfall of medical personnel. As of March 2022, the Directorate of Health Services in Chhattisgarh had a vacancy rate of 34.62% for doctors, including specialists. The situation is even more dire in Naxal-affected regions such as Bijapur, Sukma, and Kondagaon, where vacancies exceed 50% in many districts.
Procurement Irregularities and Financial Mismanagement
The CAG report details financial irregularities in the procurement of drugs and medical equipment, estimating losses to the tune of Rs 96.79 crore. During the pandemic, there were instances where items worth Rs 23.13 crore were purchased without the approval of the Covid committee, raising questions about oversight and accountability.
Moreover, the report exposes a flawed procurement system within the Chhattisgarh State Medical Services Corporation Limited (CGMSCL), which is responsible for drug and equipment procurement. The audit reveals that 26-50% of procurement was decentralized, bypassing established protocols and leading to inefficiencies.
One notable issue is the delay in completing the tender process, which resulted in the local purchase of untested drugs amounting to Rs 97.93 crore. This delay, coupled with a lack of adherence to Chhattisgarh Stores Purchase Rules (CGSPR), led to wasteful purchases and procurement from blacklisted firms. The report further indicates that poor inventory management caused Rs 33.63 crore worth of drugs to expire.
Government Response and Accountability
The revelations have sparked political reactions, with calls for accountability and reform. Chhattisgarh Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal has acknowledged the issues highlighted in the report and stated that an inquiry has been initiated. Jaiswal emphasized that recruitment of doctors and paramedical staff is underway and pledged to address the deficiencies identified.
Former Health Minister T.S. Singh Deo criticized the politicization of the report, asserting that the focus should remain on addressing the issues rather than assigning blame. Singh Deo stressed the need for transparency and accountability, emphasizing that public funds must be managed responsibly.
Efforts to Address Systemic Issues
In response to the audit’s findings, the Chhattisgarh government faces the challenge of implementing reforms to rectify the identified problems. Addressing the doctor shortage and improving procurement practices are critical steps toward restoring confidence in the state’s healthcare system.
The state’s previous BJP government (2013-2018) and the subsequent Congress administration (2018-2023) both faced scrutiny over the management of healthcare resources. The current administration must navigate these challenges while ensuring that reforms lead to tangible improvements in healthcare delivery.
Summary
The CAG’s report reveals significant issues in Chhattisgarh’s healthcare sector, including severe doctor shortages and procurement irregularities amounting to crores. The findings highlight systemic flaws that require urgent reforms to enhance the efficiency and accountability of the healthcare system.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Doctor Shortage | 34.62% vacancy rate for doctors as of March 2022 |
| Procurement Irregularities | Financial irregularities of Rs 96.79 crore in procurement |
| Decentralized Procurement | 26-50% of procurement was decentralized |
| Financial Mismanagement | Rs 97.93 crore worth of untested drugs purchased locally |
| Inventory Issues | Rs 33.63 crore worth of drugs went to waste |
| Government Response | Initiation of an inquiry and recruitment efforts underway |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
