ASHAs and ANMs, or auxiliary nurse midwives, were recognized on August 14 by Union Minister Anupriya Patel for their noteworthy support of different health-related activities in India. This award ceremony, which took place in New Delhi, honours their vital contribution to national public health outcomes and community health advancement. To show how much the government values their work, the recognized ASHAs and ANMs have been invited as special guests to the 78th Independence Day event at the Red Fort.
Minister Patel underlined the significance of ASHAs and ANMs, pointing out that the foundation of grassroots healthcare in India is made up of over 10.29 lakh ASHAs and 89,000 ANMs. These frontline workers play a critical role in community mobilization, health service facilitation, community-based healthcare, and health awareness raising. Their work is vital to provide vulnerable and isolated populations with critical health care.
The Minister acknowledged the noteworthy contribution these healthcare professionals have made to enhancing the health of Indian mothers, children, and adolescents. The maternal mortality ratio has decreased by 82% since 1990, which is evidence of the efficient treatment provided by ASHAs and ANMs. Additionally, as a result of their efforts under the Universal Immunization Programme, infant mortality rates have decreased, going from 37 per 1,000 live births in 2015 to 28 per 1,000 live births in 2020.
Another illustration of their assistance is the accomplishment of the vaccine campaign, Mission Indradhanush. ASHAs and ANMs assisted in the vaccination of 1.32 crore pregnant women and 5.46 crore youngsters between 2014 and 2023. Their work has been essential to reaching significant milestones like the abolition of maternal and neonatal tetanus (MNT) in July 2016 and India’s declaration as polio-free in March 2014.
Patel emphasized measures to assist ASHAs and ANMs in the interim budget for February 2024 as a way to further recognize their services. Among these is the ability to receive Rs 5 lakh in annual health coverage through the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Furthermore, around 6 lakh ASHAs are supported by a number of programs, including Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan Dhan, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana.
In conclusion, the fact that ASHAs and ANMs are now recognized highlights how crucial a role they play in improving public health in India. The new provisions are intended to honor and support their vital contributions, which have resulted in notable gains in health due to their dedication.
SOURCE :
THE PRINT
