Maharashtra Healthcare Crisis: Rs 1800 Cr Funds Delayed

Maharashtra has raised urgent concerns with the Union Health Ministry regarding substantial delays in National Health Mission (NHM) funds. Pending dues have reportedly exceeded Rs 1,800 crore across the past two financial years, significantly impacting the state's public healthcare operations. Officials highlighted that approximately Rs 800-840 crore from 2024-25 and over Rs 1,058 crore from 2025-26 remain unreleased.

These funding delays mean many approved healthcare projects and schemes are continuing as 'carry-forward liabilities.' The state's ability to release its 40% share is contingent upon the Centre's release of its 60% portion. This dependency has led to critical shortages affecting contractual healthcare workers, medicine procurement, diagnostic services, and ambulance networks, particularly in rural and tribal regions.

The financial pressure has compelled health officials to seek temporary adjustments and credit arrangements. The salaries of around 45,000 NHM-linked employees, including ASHA workers, are at risk, with some ASHA workers reportedly not receiving payments for over six months. While recent fund receipts have helped clear some liabilities, essential services like ambulances and emergency care remain the priority, with vendor payments being delayed.

Officials anticipate a stabilization if the next tranche of NHM funds arrives by June or July 2026. The situation has led to a prioritization of only the most essential services to ensure patient care continues despite the financial constraints.