Ranchi: Around 15,000 contractual employees working under the National Health Mission (NHM) in Jharkhand are set to receive health insurance benefits following an initiative announced by Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari at Jamtara Sadar Hospital on Friday. The move addresses a long pending demand of contractual healthcare workers, who have been seeking health insurance and mediclaim facilities for nearly two decades.
The initiative is expected to provide financial and medical security to employees and their families, offering relief to those who form an important part of the state’s healthcare delivery system. Workers welcomed the announcement, describing it as a significant festive gift from the government.
Addressing the employees, Ansari said that strengthening the healthcare system required ensuring the safety and welfare of those working within it. He emphasised that doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, health workers, operation theatre technicians, security personnel and sanitation workers all played an essential role in delivering healthcare services.
“Your pain is my pain. You work day and night to serve patients and save lives. Your safety and the security of your families are equally important. I stand with you as your guardian and will always support your dignity, safety and rights,” the minister said.
Healthcare workers expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Ansari for recognising their long standing demand. They said the proposed insurance coverage would bring considerable relief to thousands of contractual employees, who often work under challenging conditions without adequate medical protection for their families.
