India building diverse health workforce, focusing on underserved areas: JP Nadda

India is building a diverse health workforce with a focus on underserved areas, according to Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda. The government aims to achieve Universal Health Coverage by providing equitable access to specialized care. To achieve this, the government has expanded medical education infrastructure, resulting in a significant increase in undergraduate and postgraduate medical seats. Since 2014, the number of medical colleges has more than doubled, from 387 to 858, with an increase of 121.71 per cent. Medical seats have also increased, with MBBS seats rising from 51,348 to 1,42,464, an increase of 177.45 per cent, and postgraduate seats increasing from 31,185 to 86,287, an increase of 176.69 per cent. The government has also announced the creation of one lakh allied and healthcare professionals over five years, supported by the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021. Additionally, nurse practitioner programmes have been introduced in 10 critical specialities, supported by the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act, 2023. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs provide comprehensive primary healthcare, including screening, early identification and referral services, while Ayushman Arogya Shivirs extend specialist consultations to underserved communities. Community Health Centres and First Referral Units also play a crucial role in providing specialist and referral services.