India: Indefinite ambulance strike in Rajasthan

Event

Rajasthan government's ambulance service employees launched an indefinite strike on Monday, March 19. The mobilization intensified on March 21 following a failed attempt at negotiations with the state government the day prior. There are some 6000 ambulance service employees in Rajasthan state and all have reportedly joined the strike; as such, all 1500 ambulances associated with various government hospitals are out of operation as of March 21.

Context

The striking workers' 15-point demands include a salary hike.

Advice

As a reminder, local medical facilities in India are not comparable to those in the West, especially in more remote areas. In major cities private medical care is available but can prove to be quite expensive. Individuals present in India are advised to contact their insurance/medical assistance company before heading to a medical facility for treatment.