Odisha Announces Historic Pharmacy Cadre Restructuring After 39 Years

Bhubaneswar: In a landmark move, Odisha Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling has announced the long‑awaited restructuring of the pharmacy cadre, addressing a demand pending for nearly four decades.

The government has introduced a comprehensive Job Chart to clearly define pharmacists’ roles and responsibilities, ensuring accountability and clarity in healthcare delivery.

To strengthen medicine services across the state, 1,108 new Pharmacy Officer posts have been sanctioned and will be filled soon.

Odisha is also examining the adoption of the Pharmacist Council of India – Appointment and Promotion Services Rules, 2025, already implemented in 20 states, to align career progression and professional standards.

Dr Mahaling emphasised that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the state is committed to strengthening human resources in healthcare.

The Odisha Pharmacy Officers Service Association has welcomed the reforms, expressing gratitude for the government’s progressive measures.

This restructuring is expected to improve career growth opportunities for pharmacists and enhance the overall quality of healthcare services in Odisha.