Punjab News: Bhagwant Mann Govt Hikes Stipends for Medical Interns, Residents Across State

In a notable step aimed at strengthening the healthcare workforce, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Thursday announced a substantial increase in monthly stipends for interns, junior residents, and senior residents posted in the state’s government medical and dental colleges.

 Bhagwant Mann Govt Hikes Stipends for Medical Interns, Residents Across Punjab

The revised stipends will benefit over 3,000 medical professionals across Punjab, marking a significant investment in the state’s health and education sectors. The decision, aligned with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s focus on public welfare, is expected to improve both morale and retention among young doctors.

As per the updated structure, medical interns will now receive ₹22,000 per month, up from the existing ₹15,000. Junior residents will be paid ₹76,000, ₹77,000, and ₹78,000 for their first, second, and third years respectively—an upgrade from the previous uniform stipend of ₹67,968. Senior residents will now earn ₹92,000, ₹93,000, and ₹94,000 over their three years, compared to the earlier ₹81,562 flat amount.

Punjab Currently Has 907 Sanctioned Positions For Interns 

Punjab currently has 907 sanctioned positions for interns, 1,408 for junior residents, and 754 for senior residents in its government institutions.

With these changes, the annual financial outlay on stipends is set to increase from ₹204.96 crore to ₹238.18 crore, amounting to an additional burden of ₹33.22 crore on the state exchequer.

Speaking about the development, Cheema emphasized that investing in healthcare workers is central to the government’s mission of improving public services. “We are determined to equip our healthcare system not just with infrastructure but also by valuing those who keep it running. No effort will be spared when it comes to the wellbeing of our people,” he said.

The minister also pointed to the recently announced ₹10 lakh insurance coverage for every citizen in Punjab, reinforcing the state’s push toward holistic healthcare reform.

Medical students and professionals have largely welcomed the decision, calling it long overdue and a positive step toward recognizing their hard work and dedication.