During Jharkhand Assembly’s budget session, Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari made headlines by promising Rs 24,000 as a lump sum to Sahiya sisters on Women’s Day. The Friday announcement addresses longstanding grievances aired by MLA Nirmal Mahto, who noted their protests over irregular payments.
These Sahiya women form the backbone of Jharkhand’s rural health outreach, delivering essential services door-to-door. The one-year equivalent payout is a direct acknowledgment of their demands, fostering morale among thousands statewide.
The session also tackled pressing hospital issues. Saryu Roy exposed water crisis at Jamshedpur’s MGM Hospital, where inadequate supply halted critical procedures post-inauguration. Purnima Devi highlighted women’s specific struggles amid basic shortages.
Ansari outlined proactive measures: emergency water arrangements, sanctioned budgets for infrastructure, and a water treatment plant set for completion in six months. Strict penalties await errant staff compromising patient care, particularly for women.
Jugsalai’s Mangal Kalindi pitched a collaborative water pipeline from Dimna Lake via Tata Steel. Embracing such ideas, the minister pledged swift action on all fronts to elevate health delivery standards.
This comprehensive response from the health ministry blends immediate relief for workers with long-term fixes for facilities. It exemplifies targeted governance, ensuring Sahiya sisters and patients alike benefit from enhanced support systems in Jharkhand’s healthcare landscape.