Bhubaneswar: Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Tuesday directed district health officials to ensure effective and target-oriented implementation of National Health Mission programmes, with a focus on improving key health indicators at the grassroots level.
Addressing a preparatory workshop attended by Chief Medical and Public Health Officers from all districts for implementation of the NHM Programme Implementation Plan for 2026-27, Mahaling said district health chiefs were the “health leadership” of the state and their efficiency would determine the quality of healthcare delivery at the grassroots.
He stressed the need for sustained efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality, eliminate anaemia and achieve the goal of a tuberculosis-free Odisha. Calling for acceleration of the ‘TB Mukt Bharat’ campaign, the minister asked officials to step up early detection, registration of patients under the Nikshay system, treatment and follow-up.
Mahaling also called for strengthening the ‘Anaemia Mukt Bharat’ campaign through regular screening, identification, treatment and follow-up, particularly in areas with a high prevalence of anaemia. He emphasised quality assurance in healthcare facilities and directed district officials to regularly monitor and review programme targets and progress.
The minister said Odisha had made significant progress in reducing child mortality and maternal mortality, but noted that nearly 80 per cent of the state’s population lives in rural areas, making it imperative to improve the reach and quality of healthcare services in rural regions.
The workshop also reviewed human resources, infrastructure, availability of medicines and diagnostic services, digital health systems and quality assurance measures. Officials were urged to prepare firm, time-bound action plans and ensure continuous monitoring for effective implementation of health programmes.
Health and Family Welfare Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aswathy S. stressed the need to further strengthen grassroots healthcare and ensure equitable, affordable and quality services for every citizen. She called for setting a vision to achieve the best performance in the health sector by 2036.
Mission Director Dr Brunda D. made a detailed presentation on the NHM Implementation Plan for 2026-27, outlining key priorities and measures for strengthening the health system.
Health Services Director Dr Mahesh Mohan Panda, Public Health Director Rabindra Nath Mishra, Family Welfare Director Rajendra Kumar Panigrahi and other senior officials were present.
