Union Health Minister Appreciates Rajasthan’s Progress in the Health Sector

New Delhi: A high-level meeting chaired by Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda was held in New Delhi on Friday to review the implementation of central health schemes and programs across the country. Minister Nadda appreciated the Rajasthan government’s efforts in effectively implementing health programs and ensuring seamless access to healthcare services in villages and remote areas. He also lauded the steps taken to improve healthcare standards through innovative approaches.

97% Screening of Vulnerable Populations for TB
During the meeting, Rajasthan Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar highlighted the state’s remarkable progress under the TB-Free India Campaign. He reported that from January to November 2025, 99% of TB cases were notified, and 98% of private-sector reporting was recorded. With 97% screening of vulnerable populations, Rajasthan is a leading state in the country. Furthermore, 84% of beneficiaries received nutritional support through the “Niksay Mitra” program. Special emphasis has been placed on early TB detection using AI-based handheld X-rays, upfront testing, and community participation. Principal Secretary of the Health & Medical Department, Gayatri Rathod, was also present.

Free Medicine Scheme Benefits 14 Crore Patients in Current Fiscal Year
The Health Minister stated that the free medicine and diagnostic scheme is being successfully implemented in the state. Through the hub-and-spoke model of the central government, diagnostic services have expanded from large cities to villages, increasing accessibility. During FY 2024-25, 500 new medicine distribution centers were approved. By November 2025, around 14 crore patients benefited under this scheme. The e-Medicine (DVDMS) system has further strengthened the medicine supply chain.

Over 99% Fund Utilization under SSDRS Scheme
Principal Secretary Gayatri Rathod briefed on projects under the National Health Mission, including human resources, medical and nursing education. She highlighted Rajasthan’s effective control over spurious and sub-standard drugs, 99.96% utilization of SSDRS funds, and strengthening of the Drug Control Wing. Discussions were also held on amendments in the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Additionally, the state’s efforts in food safety inspections, sampling, lab capacity, and “Food Safety on Wheels” operations were reviewed. Suggestions related to food colors, trans-fats, infant foods, and labeling were also discussed.

Union Health Minister’s Directives
Minister Nadda held detailed discussions on Rajasthan’s health sector progress, covering key areas such as the National Health Mission, TB-Free India Campaign, medicine and diagnostic services, human resources, medical education, drug control, food safety, and public-private partnership initiatives. He provided necessary instructions to further strengthen healthcare services in the state.

He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, Ayushman Bharat is being effectively implemented to ensure healthcare access reaches villages and the poor. Rajasthan has made significant efforts in this direction, setting new benchmarks in healthcare delivery.

Request for Continued Support
During the meeting, the Rajasthan government requested the central government’s continued financial support for reallocation of funds under PM-ABHIM, pending insurance claims for health workers martyred during COVID-19, and regularization of NHM employees. Minister Nadda appreciated Rajasthan’s initiatives to improve health indicators and assured timely resolution of pending issues.

Officials Present:
Mission Director Dr. Amit Yadav, Additional Mission Director Dr. T. Shubhmangala, Director of Public Health Dr. Ravi Prakash Sharma, and other senior officials from the National Health Mission attended the meeting.