The idea of establishing a public health cadre in India had long been a goal for policy planners. The 2011 Task Force on Universal Health Coverage recommended creating two new cadres: health systems management and public health. This recommendation was reiterated by the National Health Policy in 2017. Although health is a state subject, Indian states typically follow a scheme-driven public health system aligned with central government directives. Tamil Nadu stood out as one of the few states with a separate directorate for public health, established in 1922, which focused on managing healthcare at the population and primary health levels.
The study aimed to assess whether creating a dedicated public health cadre in the North Eastern states would improve their health indicators while addressing specific regional challenges. It also sought to evaluate current gaps in public health indicators, delivery systems, governance structures, fiscal capabilities, and responses to health emergencies in these states.
By analysing these factors, the study intended to provide insights into how a dedicated public health cadre could enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes in the North Eastern region of India.
