CG govt to Pay NHM staff for 33-day strike period

Raipur: Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai has announced that National Health Mission (NHM) employees will be paid wages for the 33-day period during which they were on strike, providing major relief to thousands of healthcare workers across the state.The announcement was made at the state-level convention of the Chhattisgarh National Health Mission Employees’ Association in Raipur on Saturday, where the CM reiterated the govt’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services.Addressing NHM employees, Sai described them as the backbone of the state’s healthcare system and acknowledged their contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic and in delivering medical services in remote and inaccessible areas.

He said healthcare workers often overcome difficult terrain, including crossing rivers and travelling long distances, to reach underserved communities.The CM highlighted steps taken over the past two-and-a-half years to improve healthcare infrastructure, including the establishment of new medical colleges and the recruitment of doctors and paramedical staff. He urged health workers to continue serving with dedication to help build a healthier Chhattisgarh.

Health minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal said several demands of NHM employees have been addressed, including the introduction of a transfer policy and coverage under a cashless treatment scheme.He also announced life insurance benefits for NHM employees, including Rs 6 lakh compensation in case of natural death and Rs 1.40 crore in case of accidental death or permanent disability.Jaiswal said maternal and infant mortality rates have been steadily declining in the state. He added that recruitment of nurses is underway and locations for 116 specialised health centres have been identified to further improve maternal and child healthcare services.