NHM blunder: Alappuzha ASHA worker receives Rs 1.5 lakh instead of Rs 4,300

Alappuzha: Once again, the National Health Mission (NHM) district office finds itself embroiled in controversy as it mistakenly transferred over Rs 1.5 lakh to an ASHA worker instead of the person's monthly incentive of Rs 4,300. It was an ASHA worker from Nedumudi who received an astonishing Rs 1,58,354 instead of the eligible Rs 4,300 for March.

Prompt action was taken as the ASHA coordinator swiftly contacted the worker, ensuring the erroneous amount was promptly refunded. The blunder was attributed to errors within the NHM's accounts department.

Incentives and honorariums are calculated based on monthly work assessments provided by junior public health nurses through dedicated software. Payments are authorised only following verification by the District ASHA Coordinator and District Accounts Officer. However, it's alleged that the verification process is flawed.

This isn't the first time such an error has occurred. Previously, an employee received Rs 3 lakh instead of Rs 30,000 for two consecutive months. Following a complaint to the health minister, an investigation ensued. Once the employee repaid the excess, fines were imposed and collected from the responsible officers.

Compounding matters, NHM employees have been enduring delayed salaries for months, with April's remunerations yet to materialise amidst the financial crunch.