The central government on Friday pressed West Bengal to expedite the rollout of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive, and the tuberculosis (TB) elimination programme. The Centre assured full support to strengthen the state's healthcare infrastructure.
Review Meeting and Fund Release
During a virtual review meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, the Centre released ₹527.58 crore as the first tranche from the state's ₹3,505.59 crore National Health Mission (NHM) allocation for the fiscal year 2026-27.
Key Health Programmes Discussed
Nadda emphasised the need for faster implementation of the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, the measles-rubella elimination campaign, and the HPV vaccination drive. He stated that preventive healthcare and early intervention are critical to reducing the disease burden. The Union Health Minister also called for stronger surveillance and monitoring of maternal and child health indicators, particularly in border districts.
PM-JAY Implementation
The Union Health Minister urged the state to expedite the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) for implementing PM-JAY. He noted that nearly 1.45 crore families, including senior citizens, would benefit from the scheme. The Centre is ready to provide technical assistance, expert teams, and training support for healthcare capacity building in the state.
Other Health Priorities
The meeting also reviewed preparedness against vector-borne diseases, expansion of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, early screening for non-communicable diseases, and the availability of drugs and diagnostics at public health facilities.
State's Proposals
Seeking greater central support, Adhikari proposed the expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, the establishment of additional medical colleges in underserved districts, and the setting up of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in north Bengal to improve tertiary healthcare access in the region. He also flagged the need for stronger preparedness against monsoon-linked diseases such as malaria and dengue.
