Union Health Minister called on state governments to increase their investment in healthcare infrastructure. His comments highlight a significant push by the central government to address gaps in the healthcare system and ensure more effective use of allocated funds.
The Health Minister underscored a substantial 164% increase in the central budgetary allocation for health, asserting that this demonstrates the Prime Minister’s commitment to prioritising health and welfare. He emphasised that, despite the considerable funding provided by the Centre, the utilisation of these funds by state governments has been insufficient. “We are providing the financial resources, but they must be effectively used. If states utilise the allocated funds efficiently, we are prepared to allocate even more,” he stated, noting that Rs 3,200 crore has been earmarked for the PM Healthcare Infrastructure Mission. During his speech, the Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure, citing the increase in the number of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)-like hospitals and new government medical colleges as examples of this commitment. “Our approach goes beyond mere announcements. We focus on strategic planning, ensuring that resources reach their intended destinations, and addressing bottlenecks in delivery,” he added.
The debate in the Lok Sabha saw interruptions from All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) members, who protested the Centre’s handling of healthcare issues. Health minister challenged the West Bengal government to explain its delay in sharing the dengue registry with the Centre, a move aimed at spotlighting perceived deficiencies in state-level health management. The session also witnessed MPs from Kerala staging a walkout, expressing dissatisfaction with the Health Minister’s response regarding their demand for an AIIMS facility in their state.
The lack of a firm commitment on this issue intensified the protest, reflecting ongoing tensions between state demands and central assurances. He address underscores a critical moment in the dialogue between central and state governments on healthcare investment. By calling for increased state spending and effective utilisation of funds, the central government aims to fortify the nation’s healthcare infrastructure amidst growing public and political scrutiny.
