The National Health Mission’s (NHM’s) decision to sanction a five per cent annual increment for eligible contractual employees for the financial year 2026-27 is a welcome step towards recognising the contribution of healthcare workers across Jammu and Kashmir. These employees form an important part of the public healthcare delivery system, working at state, divisional, district and block levels, including under the National Urban Health Mission and various disease control programmes. Contractual healthcare workers have long been an integral part of the system, often performing demanding duties while working without the same level of financial security and service benefits enjoyed by regular employees. Their contribution becomes particularly important during health emergencies, disease outbreaks and periods of increased pressure on public hospitals and healthcare facilities. The five per cent increment may appear modest, but it provides some financial relief and acknowledges the importance of retaining experienced personnel in the healthcare sector. The decision to extend the benefit in three phases, depending on completion of one year of qualifying service, also provides a defined mechanism for its implementation. However, the real test lies in ensuring that the order is implemented uniformly and without unnecessary delays. Verification of service records and satisfactory performance are reasonable conditions, but these should not become grounds for arbitrary exclusion or prolonged administrative procedures. The concerned Drawing and Disbursing Officers and controlling authorities must ensure transparency while identifying eligible employees and processing their benefits. Any ambiguity in eligibility should be addressed promptly so that deserving workers do not suffer. At the same time, an annual increment alone cannot address all the concerns of contractual healthcare employees. Issues relating to job security, timely remuneration, working conditions and social security also deserve sustained attention. Healthcare delivery depends not only on infrastructure and medicines but equally on the people who provide services. Recognising and supporting this workforce is essential for building a stronger and more reliable public healthcare system in Jammu and Kashmir.
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