Sukhu urges Centre to raise Health Mission allocation by Rs 200 cr

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Central Government to enhance Himachal Pradesh’s annual allocation under the National Health Mission (NHM) by Rs 200 crore, citing the state’s tough geographical terrain and the need for stronger healthcare infrastructure.

During a meeting with Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda in New Delhi, Sukhu highlighted the challenges of delivering quality healthcare in hilly and remote regions. He requested increased financial assistance under NHM for the next fiscal year and sought approval for setting up three dedicated Intensive Care Units (ICUs) across the state to improve treatment for critically ill patients.

The Chief Minister also appealed to retain the Centre’s funding share under the Ayushman Bharat scheme at the existing 90:10 ratio, emphasising Himachal’s unique topographical constraints.

Sukhu briefed Nadda on the widespread damage caused by natural disasters this year and outlined the state government’s ongoing efforts toward rehabilitation and reconstruction. He requested central assistance for rebuilding essential infrastructure and supporting affected families.

Additionally, the Chief Minister urged the Union Minister to take up the matter of enhancing the state’s borrowing limit by 2 per cent with the Union Finance Minister, terming it vital for Himachal’s financial stability and development.

Union Minister Nadda appreciated the state government’s initiatives to strengthen healthcare services and assured that all requests would be examined on priority, reaffirming his commitment to support his home state’s development efforts.