Health Ministry’s Milestones and Challenges Throughout the Year
New Delhi – In 2024, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare rolled out significant initiatives, including extending the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme to citizens aged 70 and above and launching the U-WIN portal for digitizing vaccinations for pregnant women and children. The year marked substantial progress in healthcare reforms, albeit shadowed by controversies surrounding the National Medical Commission (NMC).
Key Initiatives of 2024
Ayushman Bharat Expansion
- The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) was extended to all individuals aged 70+, adding 6 crore senior citizens under its ambit.
- Since the launch of Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards in October, 25 lakh citizens have enrolled, reflecting strong public uptake.
U-WIN Portal Launch
- Replicating the success of Co-WIN, the U-WIN portal provides a permanent digital vaccination record for pregnant women and children (up to 17 years) under the Universal Immunization Programme.
Tuberculosis Elimination Drive
- The ministry initiated a 100-Day TB Elimination Campaign across 347 districts, focusing on rapid detection and treatment of cases, especially in high-risk groups.
- Introduced a shorter treatment regimen reducing TB therapy duration from 9–12 months to 6 months under the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP).
Innovation and Infrastructure
- Introduced BHISHM cubes, portable modular medical facilities, to tackle disasters and health emergencies, with 25 AIIMS and national institutes equipped in the first phase.
- Launched drone services for swift medical supply delivery in remote areas across 11 tertiary healthcare institutions.
- Rolled out helicopter emergency medical services from AIIMS Rishikesh to expedite critical care delivery.
Regulatory Advancements
- Established a National Medical Register for MBBS doctors and a central portal for allied healthcare professionals.
- Waived clinical trial requirements for select drugs approved in countries like the US, UK, and Japan, ensuring faster access to cutting-edge treatments in India.
Challenges and Controversies
NMC Under Fire
- The NEET-PG exam postponement due to alleged paper leaks caused delays in the admission process, adding stress for medical students.
- Controversial curriculum changes reintroducing outdated and inappropriate topics faced backlash, leading to their withdrawal and revision.
Addressing Healthcare Worker Concerns
- After the R.G. Kar Medical College incident, the NMC recommended a 74-hour workweek cap for resident doctors, weekly off-days, and better duty-hour facilities to ensure safety and mental well-being.
The Ministry’s initiatives and reforms reflect its commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and infrastructure. However, controversies within the NMC highlight the need for consistent regulatory oversight to maintain trust and transparency in India’s healthcare system.
