Fri Jun 13 15:41:48 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the key information from the text provided:
**Karnataka Government Takes Direct Control of Ambulance Service, Expands Health Initiatives**
**Bengaluru, June 13, 2025** – In a major move to strengthen emergency healthcare, the Karnataka government has announced it will bring the ‘108’ Arogya Kavacha ambulance service under the direct control of the Health Department, ending its private partnership operation. The decision, outlined in a Government Order issued June 12th, aims to enhance efficiency and save the state approximately ₹250 crore, according to Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.
A centralized command and control center, utilizing the 112 NG-ERSS software, will manage a fleet of 715 ambulances statewide. District-level control centers will also be established, with district health officers overseeing operations. Ambulance drivers and nursing staff will be hired on an outsourced basis.
“We are beginning this transition in Chamarajanagar district, with a phased implementation across all districts to follow. Furthermore, beyond the ‘108’ fleet, we plan to integrate over 1,000 additional State-owned ambulances under the unified ‘108 command centre for seamless emergency response,” the Minister said.
In addition to the ambulance service overhaul, the state government has approved ₹185 crore for the statewide expansion of the Gruha Arogya scheme. Following a successful pilot program in Kolar district, the scheme will now be implemented across all districts, with preparatory work beginning by the end of June. ASHA workers will conduct home visits to raise awareness about non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and encourage individuals over 30 to undergo screenings at Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres. These centres will screen for 14 NCDs, including hypertension, diabetes, and various cancers, and provide free medication to those diagnosed.
Meanwhile, the Health Department has also relieved 195 ASHA mentors working on contract under the National Health Mission (NHM). The roles previously held by these mentors with nursing qualifications will be assumed by female health workers, senior health inspectors, and community health officers. The relieved mentors will be given priority consideration for vacant nursing positions under the NHM, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
These initiatives demonstrate the Karnataka government’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare and addressing the growing burden of NCDs across the state.
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