National Health Mission
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
National Health Mission strengthens India's public healthcare system with free essential drugs, diagnostics, ambulance services and maternal-child health programmes delivered through government health centres, accessible to all citizens without separate registration.
Key facts
- Nodal ministry
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
- Level
- Central
- Launched
- 2013
- Last date
- Ongoing / No fixed deadline
- Helpline
- 104
What you get
Citizens get access to free essential drugs and diagnostics, ambulance services (108/102), maternal and child healthcare, and strengthened public health infrastructure at sub-centres, primary and community health centres across rural and urban India.
Who is eligible
All citizens accessing public health facilities are covered; specific sub-schemes prioritise pregnant women, children, and vulnerable populations.
Documents you need
No specific documents generally needed at public health facilities; Aadhaar helps for record-linkage under some components.
How to apply
Avail services directly at your nearest government sub-centre, Primary Health Centre (PHC), Community Health Centre (CHC) or district hospital under NHM.
Frequently asked questions
Is National Health Mission free?
Yes, essential services under NHM including drugs, diagnostics and ambulance transport are provided free at public health facilities.
What is the NHM ambulance helpline number?
104 for health helpline, and 108/102 for emergency ambulance services in most states.
Who runs National Health Mission?
It is implemented jointly by the central Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and state governments.