The Union Health Ministry has rolled out a major health support package for West Bengal, urging the state government to accelerate the implementation of key healthcare programmes. During a virtual meeting, Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda reviewed various healthcare initiatives with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
Financial Allocation Under National Health Mission
The Centre released ₹527.58 crore as the first tranche under the National Health Mission (NHM) allocation for the financial year 2026-27. This funding is intended to bolster healthcare infrastructure and services across the state.
Key Programmes Discussed
Nadda emphasised the need for faster rollout of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), which provides health coverage to vulnerable families. The minister also stressed the importance of accelerating the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign and the Tuberculosis (TB) elimination drive.
Healthcare Infrastructure Strengthening
The discussions also covered maternal health monitoring, disease preparedness, and the establishment of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Proposals for new medical colleges and an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in north Bengal were also on the agenda, aiming to strengthen the region's healthcare infrastructure.
Both leaders expressed commitment to improving health outcomes in West Bengal through collaborative efforts between the Centre and the state government.
