The Delhi government has announced a significant increase in the monthly incentive for 6,690 Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), raising it from Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000. This decision aims to recognise the essential role these workers play in delivering health services and facilitating access to government schemes for pregnant women, newborns, and families. The announcement was made during the ASHA Sammelan 2026, held at Thyagaraj Stadium.

Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched this initiative, alongside the inauguration of several health facility improvements. Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh highlighted that the demand for increasing the allowance had been pending for nearly a decade, reflecting ongoing support for the welfare of health workers.

Gupta emphasised the government’s responsibility to support ASHA workers, noting that their efforts are critical to enhancing healthcare accessibility in the region. By implementing this increase, the government aims to motivate ASHA workers and reinforce their indispensable services within the community.

Expansion of Newborn Screening Programme

The government has launched an extension of the Mission Anmol programme, which will now include free screening for 63 congenital conditions within 24 to 72 hours of birth. This initiative is designed to identify serious genetic, metabolic, and congenital disorders early, ensuring that affected children can receive necessary medical treatment in a timely manner.

With plans to increase coverage from approximately 1.5 lakh newborns to 2.5 lakh, the programme aims to provide critical health services to more infants in the capital. So far, over 75,000 newborns have been screened under this scheme, resulting in timely treatment for more than 700 children.

This initiative not only enhances early detection but also aims to reduce potential long-term health complications by facilitating immediate medical interventions. The government hopes to strengthen public awareness regarding the importance of prompt medical screening right after birth.

Developments in Organ Donation and Nursing Home Management

During the same event, the government unveiled a new building for the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO) at GB Pant Hospital. This facility aims to streamline efforts in organ and tissue donation and transplantation across Delhi. Chief Minister Gupta has called upon ASHA workers to educate families and individuals about the organ donation process, reinforcing community engagement in this critical healthcare aspect.

Gupta also announced her personal commitment by registering for body donation via the SOTTO portal, encouraging others to consider similar commitments. This initiative aims to create more awareness and ease of access for interested individuals who wish to contribute to organ donation.

Additionally, the government introduced the Nursing Home Management System portal, enabling private nursing homes to apply for registration and renewal, submit necessary documents, and track their applications online. This new system is expected to streamline processes, reduce the need for in-person visits to government offices, and enhance overall record management and monitoring capabilities within the healthcare system.

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