Healthcare services in Chhattisgarh's Bastar division, a region historically affected by inaccessibility and Naxal violence, are undergoing a significant transformation, with numerous health facilities receiving national quality certification. An official reported that 130 health institutions in the area have been granted National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification between January 1, 2024, and June 16.
In order to provide high-quality healthcare to these isolated and conflict-affected areas, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has been in charge of extensive staff recruitment and infrastructure upgrades, according to an official statement. The 130 certified institutions include one district hospital, 16 primary health centers, and 113 sub-health centers. In addition, 65 other health facilities are currently in the process of seeking certification.
The "Niyad Nellanar" (your good village) scheme has accelerated the distribution of Ayushman cards in Bastar. Over the past year, 36,231 Ayushman cards have been issued, achieving 52.6% coverage in the division. The scheme has so far provided ₹8.22 crore in medical assistance to 6,816 beneficiaries.
To enhance healthcare delivery, the state has appointed 33 medical specialists, 117 medical officers, and one dental surgeon in Bastar over the last 18 months. An additional 75 state-level and 307 district-level staffers have been recruited, with the recruitment process ongoing for 291 more positions. This expansion is aimed at improving both the accessibility and quality of services.
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Chief Minister Sai expressed his satisfaction with the consistent improvement and expansion of healthcare services in Bastar. He credited the transformation to the collaborative efforts of 'Mitanins' (community health workers), medical staff, and health department officials, highlighting that services are now reaching previously inaccessible areas.
State Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal stated that the government's objective is to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare for all districts, with a particular focus on tribal and conflict-ridden zones. He also mentioned that the "Malaria Mukt Bastar" campaign, through door-to-door screenings, rapid treatments, and awareness programmes, has successfully reduced malaria transmission.
Jaiswal, accompanied by senior officials and a technical team, is scheduled to tour the Bastar division from August 5 to 7. During his tour, he will inspect key district hospitals and medical colleges, chair health review meetings, and visit remote villages in Bijapur and Sukma to assess service delivery firsthand.
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