Union Minister Honours ASHAs and ANMs for Their Unwavering Commitment

Union Minister of State for Health, Anupriya Patel, felicitated 75 ASHAs and ANMs at Vigyan Bhawan in recognition of their dedication to health initiatives. These frontline workers, along with their spouses, will attend the 78th Independence Day Ceremony. Health Secretary Apurva Chandra highlighted their essential role in improving India's healthcare system.

Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, celebrated 75 ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and ANMs (Auxiliary Nurse Midwives) for their tireless dedication to the nation's health. The ceremony, held on Wednesday at Vigyan Bhawan, highlighted their pivotal role in advancing various health initiatives of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. These health workers and their spouses have been invited as special guests to witness the 78th Independence Day Ceremony at the Red Fort.

Praising their efforts, Patel remarked, "With over 10.29 lakh ASHAs and 89,000 ANMs, these workers form the cornerstone of community health in India." She emphasized their crucial contributions in driving outreach programs, enhancing community health services, and spreading health awareness, particularly in remote and vulnerable regions. Their work has significantly impacted maternal, child, and adolescent health, with notable declines in maternal and infant mortality rates.

Acknowledging their sacrifices, Patel introduced new provisions for their welfare, such as annual health coverage of Rs 5 lakhs under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. She highlighted the inclusion of ASHAs in other insurance schemes and affirmed their role in the Prime Minister's vision of a developed India by 2047. Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra lauded their contributions, noting the growing utilization of health facilities attributed to their efforts and urged for suggestions to ease their administrative burdens.

The 75 ASHAs and ANMs, along with their families, were warmly welcomed in the capital with special tours of Delhi's landmarks. This recognition aims to boost their morale and reiterates the importance of their work in India's public health landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)