ABSTRACT:
Introduction The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) relies heavily on a skilled and motivated health workforce for effective screening, management, and follow-up. However, human resource constraints often impede service delivery at the district level. This study aimed to explore the workforce-related challenges hindering the implementation of the NCD programme in the Faridabad district of Haryana. Methods A qualitative study was conducted involving 35 key stakeholders, including Medical Officers, Community Health Officers (CHOs), Staff Nurses, ANMs, ASHAs, and district/state program officials. Participants were selected from various levels of the public health system, including Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Urban PHCs. In-depth interviews were analyzed thematically to identify barriers related to staffing, training, motivation, and role clarity. Results The analysis revealed critical gaps in workforce capacity and deployment. Staff Shortage & Workload: There is a severe shortage of dedicated NCD staff (e.g., pharmacists, laboratory technicians), forcing reliance on existing multipurpose workers (ANMs) who are already overburdened with Maternal and Child Health (MCH) duties. Training Gaps: Providers reported a lack of regular, competency-based training on clinical management and the NCD portal, leading to difficulties in differential diagnosis (e.g., asthma vs. COPD) and counseling. Motivation & Incentives: Frontline workers (ASHAs) expressed low motivation due to the absence of timely incentives for NCD screening, unlike established MCH schemes. Technological Barriers: Implementation is further hampered by technical glitches in the NCD portal and a lack of digital devices, making monitoring and reporting inefficient. Conclusion The implementation of the NCD programme in Faridabad is constrained by structural human resource deficits, specifically staff shortages, inadequate training, and low motivation. To enhance service delivery, there is an urgent need for dedicated NCD personnel, streamlined incentive structures for frontline workers, and robust, regular training programs.