i. Health
The Government of India has introduced several pivotal policies in the health sector to enhance both the reach and quality of healthcare services nationwide. These efforts are especially focused on ensuring healthcare for underprivileged and marginalized communities.
Important Policies |
Details |
National Health Mission |
One of the cornerstone initiatives is the National Health Mission (NHM), launched in 2005. This program strives to offer universal access to a broad spectrum of healthcare services, including preventive, curative, and promotional care. The NHM’s core objective is to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and equitable, particularly for the most vulnerable segments of the population. |
Ayushman Bharat |
Another major step forward was the introduction of Ayushman Bharat in 2018. As a flagship health insurance scheme, it provides financial protection to low-income families against medical expenses, covering both inpatient and outpatient care. With coverage extending to over 500 million people, Ayushman Bharat plays a critical role in minimizing out-of-pocket health expenditures and improving access to quality medical services. |
National Mental Health Program |
The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) is a program launched by the government in 1982 to improve mental health services in the country. The NMHP aims to provide mental health care to all individuals, with a focus on disadvantaged and marginalized communities. |
National AIDS Control Program |
The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) is a program launched by the government in 1992 to prevent and control the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country. The NACP provides HIV testing and counseling, antiretroviral therapy, and other services to people living with HIV/AIDS. |
National Tobacco Control Program |
The National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) is a program launched by the government in 2007 to reduce tobacco use in the country. The NTCP aims to create awareness about the dangers of tobacco use, regulate the tobacco industry, and provide support to tobacco users to quit. |