NMA Election 2082: Team Mangal Unveils Agenda Focused on Doctors’ Rights and “Physician Act”

EDUCAST. As the Nepal Medical Association (NMA) heads toward its upcoming Election 2082, Team Mangal: Stronger Together has officially presented its leadership team and policy agenda, placing doctors’ professional, economic, and social rights at the center of its campaign.

Dr. Mangal Rawal is contesting for the post of President, supported by Dr. Kritipal Subedi as Senior Vice President and Dr. Kalu Singh Khatri as General Secretary.

The team reflects broad provincial representation through its Vice Presidential candidates: Dr. Tanka Prasad Barakoti (Koshi), Dr. Uday Narayan Singh (Madhesh), Dr. Arun Shahi (Bagmati), Dr. Yagya Raj Sigdel (Gandaki), Dr. Santosh Pokhrel (Lumbini), Dr. Rabin Khadka (Karnali), and Dr. Niraj Aryal (Sudurpaschim).

For key executive roles, Dr. Chandni Jaiswal is contesting for Treasurer, Dr. Subash Gurung for Joint Treasurer, and Dr. Ram Jiwan Prasad for Joint Secretary. The members’ panel includes Dr. Amit Jha, Dr. Arun Upreti, Dr. Dikshya Bohara, Dr. Nirajan Tamang, Dr. Palpasa Shrestha, and Dr. Zebana Ansari.

“Physician Act” as Core Election Agenda

A major highlight of Team Mangal’s manifesto is the proposal to introduce a comprehensive “Physician Act”, based on recommendations outlined in a report prepared by Dr. Tanka Barakoti. The proposed law aims to formally recognize physicians under a legal framework comparable to the national Labour Act.

The agenda includes:

• Financial Security: Special low-interest loan schemes through state-owned banks for housing, vehicles, and clinic establishment

• Salary and Allowances: Minimum wage standards applicable in both public and private sectors, regulated consultation fees, and provident fund arrangements

• Labour Rights: Clearly defined working hours, leave policies, and overtime provisions for all doctors, including interns and resident physicians

• Healthcare Benefits: Free medical treatment for doctors and their immediate family members at public health institutions, along with the establishment of a Doctors’ Welfare Fund

Team Mangal has stated that its vision is to strengthen unity among medical professionals, enhance institutional governance within NMA, and ensure dignity, security, and fairness for physicians across Nepal.