Kathmandu, April 15 -- The Family Welfare Division under the Department of Health and Services said it requires Rs380 million immediately to reimburse hospitals providing services under the 'Safe Motherhood' programme.

The programme, which is credited with reducing maternal and child mortality rates by over 70 percent over two decades, is at risk due to a funding crunch, officials warn.

"We have forwarded a file to the Ministry of Health and Population seeking over Rs380 million immediately to reimburse hospitals and health facilities running birthing centres across the country," said Nisha Joshi, a public health officer at the division. "Additional Rs600 million will be required in the ongoing fiscal year to give continuity to the prog...