Chandigarh, Oct 29: The Punjab government has extended the tenure of Director Health Services Dr Hitinder Kaur by one year, allowing her to serve until October 31, 2026. The decision came through a formal order issued Monday evening by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, just days before her scheduled retirement on October 31, 2025.
Officials said the extension was approved under Rule 3.26(b) of the Punjab Civil Services Rules, which permits extensions “in public interest.” The order mentioned that Dr Kaur’s continued service was needed to provide “experienced leadership” in managing state health institutions.
Under the terms of the extension, Dr Kaur will not receive additional increments or promotions, and the government retains the authority to withdraw the extension if any misconduct or complaint arises.
Dr Kaur, who has led the Directorate of Health Services for the past one and a half years, is among the few officers in recent history to receive an extension at this level. “The last such case was in 2016, when Dr H.S. Bali was granted consecutive extensions under the previous SAD–BJP government,” said a senior health official. “His tenure was cut short after the change of government.”
Reactions within the department have been divided. Some senior officers, who were considered frontrunners for the post, expressed disappointment. However, members of the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association appeared supportive.
“As director, Dr Kaur has been accessible and cooperative with the association,” said a PCMS office bearer. “We see her extension as beneficial for stability in the department.”
The association has yet to issue a formal statement, and Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh remained unavailable for comment despite repeated attempts.
