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New Delhi: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda has called upon states to improve their utilization of central funds allocated for health infrastructure, addressing concerns raised in the Rajya Sabha about potential budget shortages. He emphasized the importance of timely project implementation and the submission of utilization certificates to ensure the smooth flow of funds.
During a session on Tuesday, Nadda highlighted the discrepancy between funds sanctioned and those actually utilized. He pointed out that under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), while Rs 64,180 crore were sanctioned, states have only managed to utilize approximately Rs 20,000 crore. Similarly, under the 15th Finance Commission, of the Rs 70,000 crore sanctioned, only Rs 27,000 crore were released due to the lack of submitted utilization certificates.
“Our states’ system has to improve so that they implement programmes in time and utilise the funds and… the utilisation certificate is most important. The moment you utilise we will give you the funds,” Nadda stated in his reply. He also urged members of the parliament to refrain from creating a narrative of a shortage of funds for the health sector.
Nadda also addressed specific concerns regarding the state of Kerala, stating that there had been a delay in the release of central funds due to gaps in the branding of health centers as Ayushman Bharat health and wellness centers. “We have requested the Kerala Government to follow the guidelines for standardisation in rebranding health centres as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs,” he said, adding that funding would be released once the guidelines are adhered to.
In response to a query from Sulata Deo of the BJD, Nadda affirmed the central government’s commitment to improving health services in underserved areas of Odisha. He stated that five medical colleges and super specialty blocks have been sanctioned for the state, with three super specialty blocks planned for Barrackpore, Cuttack, and Barala. He further announced a visit to Odisha on April 11th.
Nadda advised Deo to collaborate with district health officials and update information on the PM-ABHIM portal to enhance healthcare infrastructure in underserved regions.
The Minister’s statements aimed to clarify the government’s position on health funding and underscore the need for states to improve their administrative processes to ensure the efficient utilization of allocated resources.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the provided information and aims to present a factual account. It is important to note that perspectives on fund utilization and healthcare resource allocation can vary. Readers are encouraged to seek additional information and context from reliable sources.(https://ommcomnews.com/india-news/avoid-false-narrative-on-shortage-of-funds-for-health-sector-nadda/)
