Health Dynamics of India: 2022-23 Overview
The “Health Dynamics of India (HDI) 2022-23” report provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare infrastructure and human resources across the country. This annual publication is based on administrative data reported by various states and union territories (UTs). It highlights the construction and upgrading of Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Community Health Centers (CHCs), and sub-centers in both rural and urban areas. The report serves as a vital resource for understanding the current state of healthcare in India and the progress made under the National Health Mission (NHM).
For those interested in exploring the detailed findings, the full report is available online. You can access it here.
National Health Mission: Targets and Achievements
The Union Cabinet has extended the National Health Mission (NHM) for the fiscal years 2021-2026. This extension aims to enhance healthcare delivery and improve health outcomes across India. The report outlines several key targets set under the NHM and the current status of achievements.
One of the primary goals is to reduce the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) to 87 per 100,000 live births. However, the current MMR stands at 97 per 100,000 live births, as per the Sample Registration System (SRS) data from 2018-2020. Similarly, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) target is set at 22 per 1,000 live births, while the current rate is 28 per 1,000 live births based on SRS 2020 data.
Another significant target is to sustain the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) at 2.0 at the national level, which has been achieved as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 5. The operationalization of 1.5 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs is also a priority, with 1,76,325 already operational as of January 31, 2025. Additionally, the report indicates that full immunization coverage for children under one year of age has reached 93.6%, surpassing the 90% target.
These targets reflect the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all citizens.
Incentives for Healthcare Professionals
To enhance healthcare delivery, the Government of India has introduced various incentives aimed at attracting medical professionals to rural and remote areas. These initiatives are crucial for addressing the shortage of healthcare providers in underserved regions.
One of the key incentives is the hard area allowance for specialist doctors. This financial incentive encourages them to serve in public health facilities located in challenging environments. Additionally, honorariums are provided to gynecologists, pediatricians, and anesthetists who are trained in emergency obstetric care. This initiative aims to increase the availability of specialists for critical procedures like Cesarean sections in rural areas.
Moreover, states have the flexibility to offer negotiable salaries to attract specialists. This includes strategies such as “You Quote We Pay,” allowing for tailored compensation packages. Non-monetary incentives, such as preferential admission in postgraduate courses for those serving in difficult areas, have also been introduced.
The NHM supports the multi-skilling of doctors to address the shortage of specialists. This approach not only enhances the skill set of existing healthcare providers but also improves overall health outcomes in the community.
Strengthening Urban Health Systems
To bolster the urban health system, the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) was launched in 2013 as a sub-mission of the NHM. This initiative aims to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by urban populations. Various programs and services have been implemented to improve healthcare access and quality in urban areas.
Key initiatives under the NUHM include the operationalization of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, National Ambulance Services, and Mobile Medical Units. These services ensure that healthcare is accessible to urban residents, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the program supports the deployment of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) to facilitate health education and outreach.
The government has also introduced several health programs, such as the Prime Minister’s National Dialysis Programme and the Free Diagnostics Service Initiative. These initiatives aim to provide essential healthcare services to urban populations, particularly vulnerable groups.
The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and services in urban areas. Through these efforts, the government aims to create a more equitable healthcare system that meets the needs of all citizens, regardless of their location.
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