Did the Govt Release Over Rs 151 Cr for Rural Health in West Bengal?
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Synopsis
The Union government has taken a significant step by releasing over Rs 151 crore to enhance rural healthcare in West Bengal. This funding aims to strengthen diagnostic infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to sustainable health development and local governance. Discover how this initiative will impact rural communities and their healthcare services.
Key Takeaways
- The Union government has allocated over Rs 151 crore for rural health in West Bengal.
- This funding aims to enhance diagnostic infrastructure for primary healthcare facilities.
- The initiative supports the localization of Sustainable Development Goals.
- States are required to use funds without duplicating efforts with existing programs.
- This investment will benefit numerous rural local bodies across the state.
New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) The Union government has allocated a health sector grant exceeding Rs 151 crore under the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) aimed at enhancing rural diagnostic infrastructure in West Bengal, as announced by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj on Thursday.
This funding is part of the initiative titled “Support for Diagnostic Infrastructure to the Primary Healthcare Facilities for the Sub-Centres (for Rural)” for the fiscal year 2024-25.
According to the ministry, “This grant promotes the healthy panchayat vision in alignment with the localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs), fostering health and well-being for all through local governance. It also advances the objective of “Viksit Bharat @2047 through Healthy Panchayats,” cultivating resilient and sustainable rural communities.”
The purpose of the XV Finance Commission (XV FC) health sector grant is to ensure that primary healthcare facilities are adequately equipped to deliver essential diagnostic services in rural locales, thus enhancing the overall diagnostic infrastructure at the grassroots level and benefiting villagers where Panchayati Raj Institutions are active.
The Ministry of Finance releases the XV FC Health Sector Grants based on recommendations from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, stressing that states must prevent duplication with other existing schemes.
States are mandated to utilize the funds strictly in accordance with the operational and technical guidelines set forth by the Government of India, ensuring there is no overlap with programs like the National Health Mission (NHM) or the Pradhan Mantri Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Yojana (PM-ASBY), as stated by the ministry.
In addition, under the XV FC, the Centre has disbursed Rs 680.71 crore as the first instalment of basic grants for rural local bodies (RLBs)/Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs) in West Bengal for the fiscal year 2025-26.
This funding supports 3,224 gram panchayats, 335 block panchayats, and 21 zilla parishads throughout the state.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of this funding initiative. It reflects the government's dedication to improving rural healthcare, which is critical for achieving equitable health outcomes. By investing in diagnostic infrastructure, we are taking substantial steps towards enhancing the quality of life for residents in rural areas, aligning with our national objectives.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding has been released for rural health in West Bengal?
The Union government has released over Rs 151 crore for enhancing rural diagnostic infrastructure in West Bengal.
What is the purpose of the XV Finance Commission health sector grant?
The grant aims to fully equip primary healthcare facilities to provide necessary diagnostic services in rural areas.
What are the guidelines for using the funds?
States must utilize the funds strictly per the operational and technical guidelines set by the Government of India to avoid duplication with other schemes.
Which areas will benefit from this funding?
The funding will benefit rural communities in West Bengal, specifically supporting 3,224 gram panchayats, 335 block panchayats, and 21 zilla parishads.
What other financial support has been released under the XV FC?
In addition to the health sector grant, Rs 680.71 crore has been released as the first instalment of basic grants for rural local bodies in West Bengal.
