In order to find a way to end the State-wide strike of NHM employees, Minister for Health & Medical Education, Bali Bhagat today met the representatives of the NHM Association and discussed the issues related to the strike in detail.The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere and both parties put forth their view points. The Minister apprised that the Government is already aware about their problems and issues and making all out efforts to address these in a phased manner. He said their all issues, including regularization are under the active consideration of the Government and the employees have been apprised about the development from time to time. He said strike is not the solution of any issue and they should rather come to the negotiating table and discuss their issues in detail with open mind. Listing some of the measures recently initiated by the Government for the welfare of the NHM and similarly situated employees of other organizations like J&K AIDS Control Society; the Minister said that the benefits of Accidental Insurance, EPF, paid earned leave/ maternity leave have also been extended to the NHM employees. He said the employees who are drawing salary upto Rs. 15,000/- per month will be entitled for the benefits of EPF and Government will contribute the mandatory employer’s share. Similarly, there will be 15 days paid leave for all such employees in a calendar year and female employees will be entitled for 3-month maternity paid leave. Besides, the government has already paid 5% increment to all categories of employees. He announced fresh 1% enhancement in the overall remuneration to all employees. Bali appealed the employees to resume their duties forthwith as the health services are hampering due to their prolonged strike. Additional Secretary Health, K.S. Chib, Mission Director, NHM, Dr. Mohan Singh, Director Health Services, Jammu and Family Welfare, Dr. Sameer Mattoo, Joint Director Planning, Madan Lal Bhagat, Deputy Director Health (HQ), Dr. Chander Prakash and representatives of employees including Rohit Seth were present in the meeting.