States Must Utilize Central Funds for National Health Mission, Says Union Minister

The meeting also involved officials from the National Health Authority and the Ministry of Ayush.

Union Minister of State for Health, Prataprao Jadhav, has urged states to adhere to guidelines and ensure the efficient use of central health funds provided under the National Health Mission (NHM).

During a review meeting with senior health ministry officials and representatives from Punjab, Karnataka, and West Bengal, Jadhav emphasized the importance of collaboration and effective communication to improve healthcare services nationwide.

The meeting also involved officials from the National Health Authority and the Ministry of Ayush.

According to the health ministry's statement, the agenda focused on reviewing the financial and physical progress of the National Health Mission, including infrastructure projects, human resources, and initiatives such as the 15th Finance Commission, the Emergency Covid Response Package, and the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission.

Jadhav stressed the need for states to comply with guidelines and ensure proper management of central health funds allocated for various schemes under the National Health Mission.

The Union Minister listened to the suggestions given by the States while also reiterating the need for States to comply with guidelines and ensure efficient utilization of funds being given by the Center under various schemes.

He further emphasized the need for collaboration and effective communication among states and centers to address issues and improve healthcare services across the nation.

Additionally, he urged all officials to work diligently towards achieving the objectives of NHM for better health outcomes.

"We must work together to achieve the objectives of the National Health Mission for better healthcare outcomes," Jadhav stated.

He called on officials to remain committed to the NHM's goals and ensure the optimal utilization of central health funds to strengthen health infrastructure and services.

This review meeting was part of the ongoing efforts to monitor the progress of the National Health Mission and ensure that health initiatives across India are being implemented effectively.

Saurabh Jain, Joint Secretary, MoHFW; Harsh Gupta, Principal Secretary Health, Karnataka; Dr Naveen, Shri Ghanshyam Thori and Abhishek Tiwary (MDs NHM of Karnataka, Punjab and West Bengal respectively) and senior officials of the Union Health Ministry were present on the occasion.

Stay tuned for more such updates on Digital Health News.