In recognition of their unwavering commitment to community health, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, honored 75 ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) and ANMs (Auxiliary Nurse Midwives) as special guests for the 78th Independence Day celebrations. Accompanied by their spouses, these frontline workers will witness the historic event from the Red Fort.
During the felicitation ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, Smt. Patel highlighted the crucial role played by over 10.29 lakh ASHAs and 89,000 ANMs in transforming healthcare at the grassroots level. Their dedication has been instrumental in delivering essential health services, particularly in remote and underserved areas, and has significantly contributed to advancements in maternal, child, and adolescent health in India. Smt. Patel noted that their efforts have helped achieve an 82% decline in maternal mortality since 1990 and improved vaccination rates, leading to a reduction in infant mortality from 37 per 1,000 live births in 2015 to 28 per 1,000 live births in 2020.
Acknowledging their contributions, Smt. Patel also emphasized the government’s commitment to the well-being of ASHAs and ANMs. Provisions in the interim budget of February 2024 have extended healthcare coverage of ₹5 lakhs annually under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to ASHAs. Additionally, over 6 lakh ASHAs are now covered under various social security schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana.
Union Health Secretary Shri Apurva Chandra lauded the contributions of ASHAs and ANMs to the healthcare system, particularly their role in increasing healthcare access through the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. He also acknowledged the challenges they face, such as the extensive record-keeping responsibilities, and encouraged suggestions to streamline these processes.
Upon their arrival in Delhi, the honored ASHAs and ANMs were warmly welcomed by officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. They were also given the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks, including the Nehru Planetarium and India Gate, as a gesture of appreciation for their invaluable service to the nation.
This recognition not only celebrates the dedication of these health workers but also underscores the essential role they play in advancing public health in India, contributing to the nation’s progress towards becoming a developed country by 2047.
