JKNHMEA Seeks Regularisation of NHM Employees Against Vacant Posts in H&ME Department – Alfaaz – The Words

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) has urged the Omar Abdullah–led government and the Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department to consider National Health Mission (NHM) employees for adjustment against vacant posts in the health sector.

In a statement issued here, the Association said that as the government has initiated the process of filling vacancies across various departments, including health, the long-pending demand of nearly 10,000 NHM employees deserves due consideration. It noted that these employees have been serving the public healthcare system for over a decade, often under challenging conditions and without job security.

The Association said NHM employees have played a crucial role in strengthening healthcare delivery, particularly in remote and rural areas of Jammu and Kashmir, and have become an integral part of the Union Territory’s healthcare system. It appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo to recognise the experience and commitment of NHM personnel while filling vacant posts in the H&ME Department.

According to the Association, adjusting around 10,000 NHM employees against nearly 16,000 vacant posts in the department would help retain experienced manpower and enhance the efficiency of healthcare services.

JKNHMEA president Muneer Andrabi said that a proposal for the adjustment of NHM employees has already been submitted to the administrative departments. He said the proposal was forwarded by the Mission Director, NHM, vide letter dated May 30, 2025, and supplemented by the Director, Health Services Kashmir, through a communication dated July 10, 2025, and is awaiting final approval.

He further said the proposal was submitted following directions from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to absorb existing NHM human resources against vacant positions.

Reiterating its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, the Association urged the government to take an early and positive decision in the larger public interest and for strengthening the healthcare system in Jammu and Kashmir.