The Junior Doctors’ Association protest in Andhra Pradesh entered its eighth day amid continuing demands from postgraduate students, interns and senior residents.

The doctors are seeking a revision in their stipends, along with changes related to recruitment and the proposed increase in the retirement age of senior doctors. 

The association has been seeking a 30% stipend hike, while also demanding implementation of the government order providing periodic increases. 

The protest has affected medical services at government hospitals across the State.

At KGH and Andhra Medical College in Visakhapatnam, contingency arrangements have been put in place to continue patient care. 

Senior faculty members and additional medical personnel have been deployed in critical areas.

Emergency, obstetric, paediatric, ICU and ventilator-care services are being supported through these arrangements. 

The agitation has also raised concerns over the impact on patients who depend on government hospitals.

Junior doctors have maintained that they are ready for discussions with the government. 

The State government and doctors have held meetings, but the association says a satisfactory resolution has not yet been reached. 

The protest highlights ongoing concerns over medical education, postgraduate stipends and employment opportunities for young doctors.

Further discussions between the government and JUDA are expected as the agitation continues