Problems in NRHM implementation due to lack of resources

New Delhi, Apr 30 (UNI) Some states are facing difficulties in implementing the National Rural Health Mission due to a shortage of critical human resources, limited availability of support services, including clean drinking watr and sanitation facilities in remote and under served areas, the Health Ministry today admitted.

Minister of State for Health Panabaka Lakshmi said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha that these difficulties were being addressed on a priority basis under the NRHM and other programmes. However, the architectural corrections envisaged under NRHM are dependent on overall capacity in the states, she said.

The NRHM was launched on April 12, 2005 to provide accessible, affordable, accountable, effective and reliable primary health care facilities, especially to poor and vulnerable sections of the population. NRHM has rejuvenated the demand for health services in Public Sector. The states have reported improved utilisation of OPD and In Patient services and availability of critical inputs including medicines, diagnostic services and referral arrangements, she informed.

The Government has operationalised NRHM through a detailed Framework for Implementation, which was finalised after consultations with all stakeholders and experts. Continuous and proactive handholding of states is inherent to the spirit of NRHM and all states are showing enthusiastic response to implementation of the Mission, the minister added.

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