SHILLONG, SEP 24: Meghalaya Health Minister, Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh, on Tuesday informed that the Department is on the verge of initiating the tendering process for the 108 emergency services. Dr. Lyngdoh expressed optimism that past challenges have provided valuable insights, ensuring a smoother and more efficient process this time.
Speaking to Mediapersons, the Health Minister emphasized that fast-tracking potential issues before the new vendor is selected would lead to a smoother transition. This will ensure the vendor understands their responsibilities and the terms and conditions, ultimately benefiting both the workers and the public.
“We are now on the verge of floating the tendering process (for operation of the 108 emergency services in the state),” Dr. Lyngdoh said.
“I am praying and hoping that this time, we will have no problems (in the tendering process) as we have learned from previous mistakes. This time, we have a lot of the line departments as members of the committee that is going to be scrutinizing the documents of the (bidders),” she said.
She added that the pre-bid meeting, initially scheduled for today, had been postponed but all vendors were informed of the revised timing. “I hope we will be able to select the best 108 service provider, as the ultimate goal is to benefit the public.”
Dr. Lyngdoh emphasized that fast-tracking these issues and ironing out potential problems before the new vendor is selected will allow for a smoother transition.
“When the vendor comes on board, they will be fully aware of what they need to take over, as well as the terms and conditions being set. This clarity will ensure that 108 workers receive their rights and are able to operate on a formal platform,” she explained, expressing satisfaction with the progress so far.
In a meeting held with 108 emergency service workers, Dr. Lyngdoh revealed that the workers had expressed gratitude for the recent salary increases and other improvements in their employment conditions. These included enhanced job roles, leave policies, and healthcare benefits.
“Today, I was happy to meet with 108 workers who, for a long time, were in conflict with the state government. They came to thank me for the recent pay raise, and we have also reviewed their job profiles, leave facilities, and healthcare provisions. Many of the problems they’ve faced over the years have been addressed, and they personally thanked me for these changes. I was pleased to see that they are finally happy,” Dr. Lyngdoh stated.
The minister remains committed to ensuring that the 108 emergency services continue to improve, with a focus on worker rights and public benefit as the tendering process concludes.