Nagaland NHM staff threaten cease-work if salaries not released by December 10

DIMAPUR — The National Health Mission Employee Association Nagaland (NEAN) has warned that its members will launch a total cessation of work if the government fails to clear all pending monthly remuneration by December 10.

The decision was taken at NEAN’s general body meeting held in Dimapur on Saturday, where members expressed frustration over what they described as years of routine salary delays that have now become “untenable.”

In a statement issued on Sunday, the association said NHM employees have not received their monthly salary since September 2025, while the salary for August was released only recently despite repeated appeals. It said the continuing delay has pushed hundreds of staff across the state, district and block levels into “severe financial and emotional stress.”

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“For many years, NHM employees have adjusted, compromised and tolerated salary delays every single year,” the association said. “We serve the people. We work in difficult conditions. All we ask for is timely payment for the work we do.”

NEAN said the delays have directly affected staff and their families, noting that many are struggling to pay rent, EMIs and basic living costs. It highlighted that NHM workers, despite being responsible for both programme management and service delivery, receive remuneration far lower than regular government employees.

The association also stressed that NHM employees form the backbone of the state’s public health system and warned that they would no longer tolerate any delay of monthly salary. It urged the government to ensure that funds received from the government of India are used to reserve two to three months’ worth of salaries in advance to prevent payment disruptions.

“We sincerely hope that immediate steps will be taken so that services can continue without disruption,” the association added.