Karnataka govt clarifies future of 29,000 NHM workers; performance-based retention until 2026

In a crucial update regarding the future of over 29,000 contractual healthcare workers in Karnataka, the State Health Department has issued a formal clarification. The workers, employed under the National Health Mission (NHM), have been serving in various healthcare capacities across the state for several years.

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Citing a 2019 directive from the Government of India, the department reaffirmed that the continuation of contractual staff will strictly follow performance-based evaluations, a nationwide mandate aimed at enhancing accountability and service quality.

The Karnataka government emphasized that every year, retention decisions are made transparently, considering performance, administrative needs, and budget availability. The process aims to ensure only meritorious and essential staff are retained, avoiding blanket extensions without evaluation.

According to the current policy:

• NHM workers who meet satisfactory performance criteria will have their services extended until March 31, 2026.
• Those who do not meet required standards will be relieved of their duties by October 31, 2025, marking the end of the financial year.
• The decision aims to streamline healthcare delivery while ensuring efficient use of public resources.

This move underscores the state’s commitment to upholding quality in public healthcare and implementing a structured approach to contract-based employment under central health schemes.