What are Some Key Rural Health Initiatives in India?
Several initiatives have been launched to improve rural health in India. Notable among them are:
- National Rural Health Mission (NRHM): Launched in 2005, the NRHM aims to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to rural populations. It focuses on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing human resources, and improving maternal and child health services.
- Ayushman Bharat: This program includes the establishment of Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) for providing comprehensive primary healthcare and financial protection against high medical expenses respectively.
- Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Committees (VHSNCs): These committees empower local communities to take charge of their health by creating awareness and ensuring the effective delivery of health services.