New Delhi: The Center on Friday exhorted West Bengal to accelerate Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, HPV vaccination and TB eradication programmes, while assuring full support to strengthen the state’s healthcare infrastructure.In a virtual review meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, the Center released ₹527.58 crore as the first tranche of the state’s ₹3,505.59 crore National Health Mission allocation for 2026-27.Nadda stressed on rapid implementation of TB-free India campaign, measles-rubella eradication campaign and HPV vaccination campaign, saying preventive health care and early intervention were important to reduce the burden of the disease. He also called for stronger monitoring and surveillance of maternal and child health indicators, especially in border districts.The Union Health Minister urged the state to expedite the signing of MoUs for the implementation of PM-JAY and said that around 1.45 crore families, including senior citizens, will benefit from the scheme. He also said that the Center is ready to provide technical assistance, expert team and training support for health care capacity building in the state.The meeting also reviewed preparedness against vector-borne diseases, expansion of Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, rapid testing of non-communicable diseases and availability of medicines and diagnostics at public health facilities.Seeking greater central support, the official proposed expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, establishment of additional medical colleges in deprived districts and establishment of AIIMS in North Bengal to improve tertiary health care access in the region. He also stressed the need for stronger preparedness against monsoon-related diseases like malaria and dengue.