National Health Mission

The National Health Mission (NHM) is a significant initiative by the Government of India aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of the rural and urban populations. Launched in 2013, it subsumed the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) and introduced the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM).

Objectives and Components

The mission seeks to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to the most underserved sections of the population. It encompasses various components such as reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCH+A), prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, and overall strengthening of the healthcare infrastructure.

Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA)

A notable feature of the NHM is the Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) program. ASHAs are community health workers who serve as a crucial link between the healthcare system and the community. They are instrumental in promoting health awareness and mobilizing communities towards healthcare services.

Mission Indradhanush

Under the ambit of NHM, Mission Indradhanush was launched to ensure full immunization coverage for children and pregnant women. It aims to accelerate the progress towards achieving full immunization coverage in the country.

National TB Elimination Program

The National TB Elimination Program is another flagship initiative under NHM. It is dedicated to eradicating tuberculosis in India by promoting better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

Role of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) plays a pivotal role in the implementation of the NHM. It is responsible for formulating health policies and ensuring their effective execution across various states and union territories of India.

Healthcare in India

The NHM is part of the broader landscape of healthcare in India, which has been evolving to meet the demands of its large and diverse population. Despite significant progress, India ranks lower in terms of healthcare expenditure as a percentage of GDP.

Mental Health in India

Mental healthcare is an integral aspect of the healthcare system in India. The Mental Healthcare Act of 2017 ensures the right to mental healthcare and is aligned with the objectives of NHM to provide comprehensive health services.