Help widen health mission's reac, Nadda urges elected officials

New Delhi, Feb 16 (IANS) Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda Monday urged public representatives at every level of the society to actively participate in enhancing the services of the National Health Mission (NHM).

"Involvement of the public representatives at all levels whether they be pradhans, ward members, MLAs (legislators) and MPs will enhance the outreach and effectiveness of the NHM," said Nadda at the 8th common review mission of the NHM here.

He said that representatives will not only bring their experience and knowledge from the ground level to the programmes, but will also ensure in creating effective accountability structures.

Addressing the health officials from 15 states along with representatives, Nadda pointed out that it was important for the officers to personally go on field visits to gather first-hand information on the implementation of the programmes under the NHM.

"This has the potential to surpass the effectiveness of several printed reports and can make substantial difference," he said.

The health minister also mentioned that fund utilization by the states should be outcome oriented, to help in optimum utilization of the allocated funds.

He said that the NHM has resulted in decentralisation of power, planning, procurement and implementation of result-oriented health programmes that have strengthened the health care systems and infrastructure at the state level.