Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to continue the Nirmal scheme, a key healthcare initiative aimed at improving cleanliness and support services in public hospitals and health centers across the state. The scheme, which has been extended for another five years, will receive a budget of Rs. 5,174.79 crore to ensure better hygiene, safety, and overall patient care.  
Odisha Government Extends Nirmal Scheme to Improve Public Healthcare Services


What is the Nirmal Scheme?

The Nirmal scheme, officially named “Strengthening Ancillary Services at Public Health Facilities,” focuses on providing essential support services in government-run healthcare centers. These services include:  
  • Housekeeping – Regular cleaning and sanitization to maintain hygiene.  
  • Linen and laundry services – Ensuring clean bedsheets, towels, and patient gowns.  
  • Security services – Keeping hospitals safe for patients and staff.  
  • Attendant services – Helping patients with non-medical needs.  
The scheme covers all types of public health facilities, from small sub-centers and primary health centers (PHCs) to larger community health centers (CHCs), district hospitals, medical colleges, and AYUSH colleges.  

Why is This Scheme Important?  

The main goal of Nirmal is to:  
  • Reduce hospital-acquired infections by maintaining high cleanliness standards.  
  • Improve patient satisfaction by ensuring a more comfortable and hygienic environment.  
  • Help hospitals score better in health quality assessments like Kayakalpa and National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS).  
Many government hospitals in India struggle with poor sanitation and lack of proper support staff, which affects patient care. By investing in these essential services, the Odisha government aims to create a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for patients.  

Impact on Public Healthcare  

With the extension of the Nirmal scheme, more healthcare facilities across Odisha will be able to provide better care and a more pleasant experience for patients. Clean hospitals not only prevent infections but also boost public trust in government health services.  
The government’s decision reflects its commitment to strengthening public healthcare and ensuring that even rural and remote health centers meet basic hygiene and service standards. Over the next five years, this scheme is expected to make a significant difference in the lives of millions of people relying on government hospitals in Odisha.  
This move is part of Odisha’s larger efforts to upgrade healthcare infrastructure and improve the overall quality of medical services in the state.