SRINAGAR: The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Srinagar has issued show-cause notices to 12 private hospitals and healthcare establishments, seeking explanations over alleged non-compliance with directions related to the implementation of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
The action followed a meeting convened by the CMO on September 21 to review the implementation of the apprenticeship programme in private hospitals and nursing homes. The concerned institutions had reportedly been asked to register and enrol under NAPS and proceed with implementation on a priority basis.
As per the notices, the institutions were also directed to engage apprentices equivalent to 15 per cent of their total employee strength and furnish updated information regarding their enrolment status by September 22.
The CMO has sought replies from the concerned institutions within two hours of receipt of the notices, along with documentary evidence of compliance wherever applicable. The notices reportedly state that failure to furnish a response could invite further action under the applicable rules.
The development has also triggered concerns among representatives of the private healthcare sector over the financial implications of the scheme. The Jammu and Kashmir Private Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association (JKPHDA) has raised objections to what it described as pressure on private establishments to create apprenticeship positions.
The association has also highlighted pending Ayushman Bharat/SEHAT payments, claiming that dues to private hospitals have remained unpaid for several months. It has argued that the financial situation of several institutions makes it difficult to bear their share of apprenticeship stipends while continuing regular healthcare operations.
According to the association, many private hospitals are already registered on the NAPS portal and upload vacancies when positions become available. It has questioned the need for hospitals to create additional apprenticeship positions on a fixed target basis.
The NAPS was launched by the Government of India in 2015 as an apprenticeship and skill-development framework. The current dispute in Srinagar centres on how its provisions should be implemented in private healthcare establishments and the financial responsibilities associated with engaging apprentices.
The notices issued by the CMO Srinagar have now put the concerned institutions under a stipulated deadline to explain their position and demonstrate compliance.
Further action will depend on the responses and supporting documents submitted by the respective hospitals and healthcare establishments. (KNC)
