Punjab Govt Cancels Recruitment of 343 Psychologists, to Outsource De-Addiction Centre Services

December 22, 2025

Chandigarh: In a major policy shift, the Punjab government has cancelled the recruitment process for 343 psychologists who were to be appointed at state-run de-addiction centres. Instead, the government has decided to outsource psychological services to private agencies. Alongside this move, authorities have also announced that all students who paid application fees for the recruitment process will be refunded.

The cancelled recruitment was originally aimed at strengthening mental health support at de-addiction centres, particularly for patients struggling with substance abuse. The sudden decision to outsource services has sparked debate among healthcare professionals, candidates, and political circles.

Outsourcing Model to Replace Direct Recruitment

According to officials, the government reviewed the recruitment process and concluded that outsourcing services would provide a more flexible and cost-effective solution. Private agencies will now be responsible for providing qualified psychologists to de-addiction centres across the state, ensuring faster deployment and the ability to scale services according to demand.

Officials said that the outsourcing model would also reduce long-term financial commitments for the government. However, details regarding contracts, remuneration, and monitoring mechanisms for the private agencies are yet to be released.

Refunds to Applicants and Candidate Concerns

The government announced that all students who had paid application fees for the cancelled recruitment process will receive a full refund. This move is expected to ease some of the dissatisfaction among applicants who were awaiting appointments.

Despite this, several candidates expressed concern over job security and transparency under the outsourcing system. Mental health experts have also warned that frequent staff changes in outsourced positions may affect continuity of care, patient trust, and long-term rehabilitation outcomes.

Impact on Mental Health Services and Political Reactions

Opposition parties have criticised the decision, arguing that outsourcing essential healthcare services could weaken the public health system. They have demanded that the government reconsider the move and proceed with direct recruitment to ensure stable staffing at de-addiction centres.

Responding to the criticism, government officials maintained that the decision was taken in the interest of efficiency and better service delivery. They assured that strict contractual terms would be enforced to maintain quality care and regular evaluation of private agencies.

The government reiterated its commitment to combating drug addiction in Punjab and improving mental healthcare infrastructure, stating that outsourcing will not compromise patient care.