DIMAPUR: A one day orientation programme on effective implementation of the 15th Finance Commission Health Grants Components was organised by the Directorate of Municipal Affairs in collaboration with the National Health Mission (NHM), Nagaland at De Oriental Grand, Bayavü, Kohima, on June 30.
According to DIPR report, the programme commenced with a welcome address by joint director, Directorate of Municipal Affairs and Nodal Officer, 15th Finance Commission (Urban), Wachusie Katiry.
Delivering the keynote address, director of Municipal Affairs, Temjenrenla Kechü, outlined the objectives of the grant, noting that it was introduced by the Government of India to strengthen basic healthcare services in urban and rural areas through local bodies. She said the scheme was conceptualised after the Covid 19 pandemic exposed gaps in healthcare delivery, leading to overcrowded hospitals. To address this, Urban Health and Wellness Centres (UHWCs) were introduced to provide neighbourhood level healthcare and diagnostic services.
Kechü informed that under the Municipal Affairs Department, funds have been provided for establishing new UHWCs through construction, upgrading existing facilities, or renting buildings where land is unavailable. Each centre is eligible for a one time grant of Rs. 25 lakh for infrastructure and Rs.3 lakh for computer and internet facilities. She added that six additional centres are planned this year, with UHWCs envisioned as the first point of healthcare access at the community level, including emergencies, with referral linkages to polyclinics.
Managing Director of Naga Hospital Authority Kohima, Dr. Imotemsu, presented an overview of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), describing it as a system ensuring access to quality health services without financial hardship. He highlighted UHC’s three pillars—universal access, quality healthcare, and financial protection—and noted global challenges, including 2.1 billion people facing financial hardship due to healthcare costs. He also outlined India’s progress through initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, Health and Wellness Centres, digital health records, telemedicine and expanded immunisation, while stressing the need to strengthen primary healthcare and leverage technology.
Technical sessions were conducted on non recurring and recurring cost components under the grant, with resource persons including Dr. Thomas Keppen, deputy director NHM Nagaland, and Dr. Manyau Phom, joint director H&FW. A session on polyclinic services was also held with joint director Wachusie Katiry.
