NHM Staff Defer Strike Following Written Assurance From J&K Govt

Srinagar | September, 18: The Jammu and Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA) has deferred its proposed UT-wide strike following a formal written assurance from the Health and Medical Education Department regarding their long-standing demands.
Official sources said the decision was finalized during a high-level meeting between the JKNHMEA Joint Coordination Committee and Health Minister Sakeena Itoo at the Civil Secretariat, alongside Mission Director NHM and senior department officials.
The government has constituted a specialized committee vide order No. PS/HME/058/156 dated September 17, 2026, to examine employee concerns and frame a structured roadmap. The association, which had been protesting for pay parity, job security, regularisation policies, and social security benefits, welcomed the move. JKNHMEA Chief Spokesperson Abdul Rauoof stated, “The constitution of the committee vide No. PS/HME/058/156 dated 17-09-2026 and the commencement of work on the roadmap are important steps forward. We appreciate the positive intervention of the Health Minister and the officers concerned.”
He emphasized that the decision demonstrates faith in constructive dialogue. “Our decision to defer the strike is based on the written commitment of the Government and reflects our faith in the process initiated today. NHM employees have always preferred dialogue and constructive engagement,” Rauoof said, adding, “We sincerely hope that the assurances given in writing will be honoured in letter and spirit and that the roadmap will be finalised and implemented at the earliest.”