The Union Cabinet’s decision to extend the National Health Mission (NHM) for an additional two years underscores the critical role the initiative has played in advancing India’s healthcare landscape. This extension not only reaffirms the Government’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals but also highlights the significant progress India has made in improving public health outcomes. Over the past decade, NHM has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s public health framework. Its contributions to maternal and child health, disease elimination, and healthcare infrastructure development have transformed the country’s healthcare system. Particularly noteworthy is the substantial decline in key health indicators such as maternal mortality rate, infant mortality rate, under-five mortality rate, and total fertility rate. The 25% reduction in MMR stands as proof to NHM’s efficacy. This achievement is further magnified when viewed against the backdrop of India’s ambitious target of meeting its health-related SDGs well before the 2030 deadline.
One of NHM’s defining characteristics has been its adaptability and resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. The mission’s ability to respond effectively to health emergencies has been instrumental, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. By leveraging its extensive network of healthcare workers and facilities, NHM played a pivotal role in administering over 220 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses between January 2021 and March 2024. This achievement is emblematic of the mission’s capacity to scale operations rapidly in times of need, ensuring accessibility and quality healthcare services across the country. Human resource expansion has been another cornerstone of NHM’s strategy. In the three years from 2021 to 2024, NHM facilitated the engagement of over 12 lakh additional healthcare professionals, including medical officers, specialists, staff nurses, auxiliary nurse midwives, and community health officers. These efforts have strengthened grassroots healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas, aligning with the mission’s objective of reducing health disparities. Community health officers, in particular, have played a crucial role in delivering primary healthcare services at the Health and Wellness Centres established under NHM, ensuring last-mile connectivity.
NHM’s targeted initiatives, such as the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission and the Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign, have further underscored its commitment to combating specific health challenges. The Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0, which achieved vaccination coverage of nearly 98 percent, exemplifies the mission’s focus on ensuring comprehensive immunisation for children and reducing preventable diseases. Such initiatives also contribute to the long-term well-being of the population.
Beyond immediate healthcare outcomes, NHM’s contributions resonate with broader socioeconomic goals. A robust healthcare system directly impacts economic productivity, education, and overall quality of life. By addressing critical health issues and fostering a holistic approach to well-being, NHM strengthens India’s human capital, paving the way for sustained development. The dramatic decline in the maternal mortality ratio reflects improved access to antenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and emergency obstetric services, which are crucial for empowering women and enhancing societal progress.
As India inches closer to meeting its health-related SDG targets ahead of the 2030 deadline, it is important to build on NHM’s successes. The extension provides an opportunity to refine strategies, scale up successful interventions, and address emerging challenges such as non-communicable diseases and mental health. Strengthening the mission’s focus on digital health solutions and integrating technology into service delivery can further enhance efficiency and accessibility. Initiatives like telemedicine, digital health records, and mobile health applications hold immense potential to bridge gaps in healthcare access, particularly in remote areas. The Union Cabinet’s decision to extend NHM is a welcome step towards a healthier India. It reflects the Government’s recognition of health as a central pillar of national development. India’s progress under NHM is a source of pride, but it is also a reminder of the work that remains. With a renewed focus and unwavering dedication, NHM has the potential to drive India closer to universal health coverage, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards a healthier, more equitable future.
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