SRINAGAR, SEP 23: The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a significant surge in health expenditure over the past five years, reflecting a strengthened commitment to healthcare infrastructure and services.
Data reveals that under the National Health Mission, the annual health expenditure in the region has almost doubled from Rs 573.12 crore in 2018 to Rs 917.02 crore in 2022.
In 2019, the annual health expenditure was recorded at Rs 662.56 crore, and by 2021, it had risen to Rs 779.61 crore. Remarkably, these figures demonstrate that Jammu and Kashmir’s annual health expenditure now surpasses that of several states, including Goa (Rs 84.64 crore), Himachal Pradesh (Rs 567.83 crore), Meghalaya (Rs 319.08 crore), and Uttarakhand (Rs 319.08 crore).
The central government has also played a significant role in bolstering healthcare in the region by releasing Rs 237.02 crore to Jammu and Kashmir over the last five years under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). The annual funding under this scheme has increased by more than 24 percent during this period, rising from Rs 20.64 crore in 2018 to Rs 85.62 crore in the latest year. So far this year, the Centre has disbursed Rs 3.25 crore to Jammu and Kashmir under this scheme.
In addition, the government has allocated Rs 1173.5 crore under the Human Resource for Health and Medical Education scheme for the establishment of seven new medical colleges in the union territory. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare infrastructure and medical education.
Notably, the health sector in Jammu and Kashmir has received its highest-ever budgeted allocation of Rs 2097.53 crore for the current fiscal year. In comparison to the Rs 1882 crore allocated for health and medical education in 2022–2023, this marks a substantial increase of Rs 215 crore. The robust budgetary allotment for health and medical education in the fiscal year 2023-24 is indicative of the government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing healthcare.
A high-ranking official highlighted the government’s dedication to the health sector in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing increased funding and infrastructure development through various central schemes.
“We are witnessing significant investments in the health sector, not only from the government but also from private companies. The government’s focus is on enhancing healthcare by upgrading existing facilities, equipping them with modern equipment, and ensuring the availability of essential medicines,” the official stated. The substantial rise in health expenditure signifies a promising step forward in enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality in Jammu and Kashmir, benefiting its residents and contributing to the overall well-being of the region.
