Jammu and Kashmir announces 5% pay hike for NHM health workers

The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Saturday unveiled plans to provide a five percent annual increment to contractual staff working under the National Health Mission (NHM) scheme for the forthcoming fiscal year. The pay hike applies to eligible employees currently serving in healthcare roles across the Union Territory.

Health Minister Sakina Itoo announced the decision, describing it as fulfilment of an earlier government commitment to the NHM workforce. "A five percent annual increment has been sanctioned for eligible contractual employees engaged under the NHM for FY 2026-27," Itoo said in a statement, emphasising that the move recognises the dedication of healthcare professionals.

Official sources characterised the increment as part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. The administration said the salary increase reflected its commitment to supporting the welfare of health sector employees who have played a crucial role in maintaining and improving medical services across the region.

The announcement comes as several states across India have undertaken reviews of compensation structures for contract-based healthcare workers, particularly those engaged under centrally-sponsored health schemes. The J&K government said it would continue working towards building a more responsive and inclusive healthcare system.