New Delhi: Although 99 percent of the requested branding mandates have been completed, the central government is yet to release aid for the National Health Commission maintains Kerala government sources. 

To improve the state health sector’s infrastructure, funds are allocated annually from the National Health Mission (NHM), a central scheme. Rs 92.8 crores are yet to be received for the months of October-December. The state complains that even after meeting all the branding requirements suggested by the center, there has been no movement of funds.

The modernisation and infrastructural development of the primary health centres and sub-centres are carried out through this scheme where the centre provides 60 percent of the funds, while the state’s share is 40 percent. The state has already sanctioned its share of Rs 50 crore and is in wait for the central fund. 

As a part of branding, the NHM has suggested painting health centres (PHC) in yellow and maroon colours and installing the pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and respective Chief Ministers as well as changing the name of sub-centres to Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres. After doing all this, the rebranded details need to be uploaded on the NHM site, and the centre is notified of the changes.

There are a total of 6218 PHCs and sub-centres in Kerala of which 6131 have been rebranded as per centres instructions, government sources say. An amount of Rs 2521.99 crore is required for the current financial year. Rs 1513 crore of this needs to be allocated by the centre. The state is aggrieved that even after the health minister spoke directly to her central counterpart, the funds are still delayed.