No information available on the Central Government’s oral healthcare budget

According to reports, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is in the dark about the funding allotted for oral healthcare and the availability of central government employment in this field.

In order to get information on the budgetary allotment for the years 2014 to 2024 as well as the preventative measures implemented for dental healthcare nationwide, the All India Dental Students and Dental Surgeons Association submitted an RTI application to the ministry.

The RTI request also included details about the ministry’s investments in infrastructure, education, training, research, and treatment services in order to prevent dental illnesses, enhance oral health, and develop treatment services.

The Dental Council of India responded to the application on April 4th, stating that they were unable to locate any information on the budgetary allotment for oral healthcare from 2014 to 2024.

The Association criticized the government agencies for their lack of accountability and openness, highlighting the information gap as a grave disregard for oral healthcare.

The Association asked political parties to prioritize dental healthcare and take proactive measures in the next administration to solve the problem.