KATHMANDU, JUNE 23 Minister for Health and Population, Pradip Paudel, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to bringing basic hospitals into operation from the beginning of the new fiscal year. Responding to questions raised during discussions on the Appropriation Bill, 2082, regarding the Ministry of Health and Population, Minister Paudel stated that approximately 700 such hospitals will be operational from July 17. 'The Basic Hospital Operation Standards, 2081, have been approved and implemented. A total of one billion rupees has been allocated for its implementation,' he said. The Health Minister added that preparations are underway to recruit 2,500 health personnel annually, with the goal of hiring 12,000 over five years, utilizing the budget of the upcoming fiscal year. He further noted that the Ministry has initiated an Organization and Management (O&M) survey of the health sector. The budget for the health insurance programme has also been increased compared to the current fiscal year in an effort to make the system more efficient and structured. Highlighting social equity in healthcare, Minister Paudel shared that Rs 100 million has been allocated to provide free treatment for burn injuries to economically disadvantaged citizens. He emphasized that sufficient funds have been arranged to ensure that no individual dies due to a lack of treatment for burn injuries resulting from financial hardship. In addition, preparations are being made to offer free treatment for pediatric diabetes in all provinces, he stated.