The Government of India has undertaken a comprehensive approach to tackle Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and provide affordable healthcare to its citizens. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, recently detailed these efforts in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, highlighting the initiatives under the National Health Mission (NHM) and their impact on public health.

Central to this strategy is the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), which offers technical and financial assistance to states and Union Territories. This program focuses on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing human resources, promoting early diagnosis, ensuring timely referrals, and raising public awareness about NCD prevention. As part of this initiative, the government has established a network of 770 District NCD Clinics, 372 District Day Care Centres, 233 Cardiac Care Units, and 6,410 Community Health Centre NCD Clinics across the country.

The government has also launched a population-wide screening initiative for common NCDs as part of primary healthcare delivery under NHM. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) play a crucial role in community engagement, educating people about healthy lifestyles, the importance of early detection, and access to timely treatment. Through home visits, group meetings, and participation in health campaigns, ASHAs serve as key drivers of health awareness in rural and urban areas.

Public health campaigns and lifestyle initiatives form another pillar of the government’s strategy. Programs like the Eat Right India movement, overseen by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and the Fit India Movement, implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, encourage citizens to adopt healthier habits. Additionally, yoga-related activities organized by the Ministry of AYUSH and observance of health awareness days are instrumental in promoting wellness and disease prevention. These efforts are amplified through print, electronic, and social media campaigns supported by NHM funding to states and Union Territories.

The government has prioritized universal health coverage and the reduction of out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. Through the National Free Drugs and Diagnostics Services under NHM, essential medicines and diagnostic tests are provided free or at highly subsidized rates at public health facilities. Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) offers health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care. This scheme benefits approximately 55 crore individuals, representing the most economically vulnerable sections of the population. Recently, the government extended PM-JAY benefits to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income.

Affordable medicines and specialized pharmacies further bolster healthcare access. The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has established over 14,000 Janaushadhi Kendras nationwide, offering 2,047 types of medicines and 300 surgical devices at reduced prices. Similarly, the Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) initiative has set up 218 pharmacies across 29 states and Union Territories, providing essential medicines, implants, and surgical disposables at discounts of up to 50% on market rates.

These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and making quality healthcare accessible, especially for underserved and marginalized communities. Public hospitals provide free or highly subsidized treatment for major NCDs, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent individuals from receiving necessary care.

The measures outlined by the government underscore its determination to address the growing burden of NCDs while improving the overall accessibility and affordability of healthcare. By integrating preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies, India is taking significant steps toward safeguarding the health and well-being of its population.