Lack of PG medical seats, faculty shortage, infrastructure issues! Here are 7 top takeaways from Parliamentary Panel Report

The key findings from the reports outline the government’s spending priorities, identify systemic inefficiencies, and propose solutions to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality.

Below are the major takeaways from the committee’s observations:

1. Budgetary Allocations and Financial Concerns

The committee has raised alarms over inadequate budget allocations for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). While the government has made significant commitments towards strengthening healthcare, the committee noted that actual financial support does not align with these goals. The report stated;

"The Committee notes with concern that the Budget Estimates (BE) for the Department of Health & Family Welfare for the year 2025-26 have been reduced as compared to the projections made by the Ministry."

This reduction, the panel warned, could "adversely impact the implementation of various health schemes and infrastructure projects."

Additionally, the committee criticized the persistent pattern of underutilization of allocated funds, particularly in Centrally Sponsored Schemes. A significant portion of funds remained unspent due to "delays in approval processes, slow implementation, and bureaucratic bottlenecks."

The panel emphasized the need for better financial planning and monitoring mechanisms, recommending that the MoHFW ensure effective fund utilization and push for additional resources through Supplementary Grants if needed.

2. Gaps in Healthcare Infrastructure and Service Delivery

Despite India’s push for universal healthcare, the reports highlighted severe deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas. Many hospitals remain understaffed, and primary health centers (PHCs) lack essential facilities. The committee observed;

"Several healthcare facilities, particularly in rural and remote areas, are functioning without adequate human resources, medical equipment, and basic amenities, which severely affect the quality of healthcare services provided."

To address these issues, the committee recommended:

a.) Increasing budgetary allocation for rural healthcare infrastructure

b.) Filling vacant healthcare positions

c.) Ensuring adequate supply of essential medicines and medical equipment in government hospitals

3. Shortage of Medical Professionals and Faculty in Government Institutions

The reports also flagged the acute shortage of doctors, nurses, and paramedics in public hospitals. In particular, the lack of specialist doctors in district hospitals was identified as a pressing issue.

One of the major concerns raised was the high number of faculty vacancies in government medical colleges. The committee noted;

"There is an urgent need to address the shortfall of medical teachers in government institutions, as this directly impacts the quality of medical education and the availability of trained doctors."

In this regard, the committee suggested incentives for medical professionals to join government service, improvements in working conditions, and streamlined recruitment processes.

4. Medical Education and Strengthening PG Seats

The reports also emphasized the importance of expanding postgraduate (PG) medical seats to meet India’s growing healthcare demands. With increasing demand for specialist doctors, the committee recommended upgrading district hospitals into medical colleges and expanding medical education infrastructure.

A critical observation made was;

"The government must take immediate steps to increase the number of postgraduate medical seats, particularly in underserved regions, to ensure a steady supply of specialists in critical healthcare fields."

5. Need for Strengthening Public Health Programs

The committee highlighted several shortcomings in public health programs, especially those targeting maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and communicable disease control.

One of the recommendations stated;

"The government should ensure timely availability of funds and efficient execution of national health programs to address the growing burden of diseases and improve health outcomes."

Key areas identified for improvement include:

a.) Expanding immunization programs

b.) Strengthening initiatives for tackling diabetes, hypertension, and cancer

c.) Enhancing surveillance and preparedness for future pandemics

6. Challenges in Implementation of Ayushman Bharat and NHM

The report also reviewed flagship programs such as Ayushman Bharat and the National Health Mission (NHM), acknowledging their impact but also highlighting gaps in implementation. It stated;

"While Ayushman Bharat has significantly improved healthcare accessibility, challenges such as low reimbursement rates for hospitals and delays in payments need urgent attention."

Similarly, the committee raised concerns over the slow progress of Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) under the NHM and recommended increased investment and monitoring.

7. Strengthening India's Preparedness for Future Health Crises

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed several weaknesses in India’s healthcare system, prompting discussions on building a more resilient health infrastructure. The committee urged the government to:

a.) Invest in disease surveillance and early warning systems

b.) Expand critical care facilities and hospital bed capacity

c.) Enhance domestic manufacturing of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals

"The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of preparedness, and the government must take proactive measures to strengthen health security mechanisms in the country."