Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has called for faster and focused reforms in the health sector and stronger efforts to achieve a TB-free India. He was speaking at a high-level review meeting with officials from Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in New Delhi.
Mr Nadda stressed the need for strong drug regulation and close monitoring of the entire supply chain. He asked both States to improve the Free Drugs and Free Diagnostics schemes by fixing problems in supply and monitoring. He said the Centre is working with IIM Ahmedabad to make medicine procurement more transparent and efficient.
The Union Minister said good-quality diagnostic services are essential for effective health care and must be strengthened at primary, secondary and tertiary levels. He also called for better professional management of hospitals and stricter regulation of blood banks, hospital systems and safety rules.
Highlighting the role of technology, Mr Nadda urged wider use of telemedicine so that people in remote and underserved areas can get access to specialist doctors.
On tuberculosis, he said TB elimination efforts must be taken up in mission mode at the district and block levels. This should include increased screening, early diagnosis, proper treatment, and nutritional support for patients.
Mr Nadda also suggested holding awareness workshops for MLAs to improve coordination with block and chief medical officers. He said public participation is important for accountability and better health results.
The meeting focused on strengthening public health systems, improving patient satisfaction, tightening regulations, and speeding up major national health programmes.