• UGI USER
  • Feb 13, 2024
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OVER 3 LAKH ASHAS APPLY FOR CENTRE’S HEALTH COVER

Why in the news?

  • The Centre decided to extend health coverage to Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Anganwadi workers and helpers under Ayushman Bharat scheme.
source:upscsuccess

About Inclusion of ASHAs and Anganwadi Workers in Health Cover:

  • Inclusion of ASHAs and Anganwadi Workers in Health Cover:
  • More than 3 lakh ASHA workers and 23 lakh Anganwadi workers provided Aadhaar details for enrollment.
  • Card Preparation and Scheme Implementation:
  • Health Ministry aims to issue healthcare cards by month-end for the scheme starting March 1, 2024.
  • Ayushman Bharat offers coverage up to ₹5 lakh annually for needy families.
Key Features of ASHA

·    ASHA Programme Origin:

o   Launched in 2005-06 under National Rural Health Mission, extended to urban areas in 2013.

o   Inspired by WHO monograph and Alma Ata conference on primary health care.

o   Model influenced by Chhattisgarh’s Mitanin initiative starting in 2002.

●  Age and Role:

o   ASHA, aged 25-45, serves as the primary health contact for rural populations, particularly women and children.

●  Density Norms:

o   Norm of “1 ASHA per 1000 population,” with flexibility based on locality characteristics.

·    Program Statistics:

o   India has over 13 lakh Anganwadi workers and 10 lakh helpers.

There are 9.83 lakh ASHAs across 35 states and UTs, making it the world’s largest volunteer program